Rwanda and Ethiopia have signed a defense cooperation agreement aimed at strengthening military collaboration, covering areas such as counterterrorism and training. This partnership builds on Ethiopia’s existing military relations with other nations, showing a trend of expanding defense cooperation in the region and beyond.
Rwanda has recently signed a defense cooperation agreement with Ethiopia, marking a significant development in military collaboration. The formal signing took place between Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, the Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), and Lieutenant General Mubarak Muganga, the Army Chief of Staff of Rwanda, during Muganga’s official visit to Ethiopia.
The agreement follows fruitful discussions on various cooperation areas between senior officials from both nations. Major General Teshome Gemechu, the ENDF’s Director General of External Relations, emphasized that Ethiopia and Rwanda have maintained military collaboration for many years, with the new pact aimed at strengthening this partnership further.
Key focuses of the defense cooperation include counterterrorism efforts, military training, and capacity-building initiatives. Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa from the Rwanda Defense Force reiterated the importance of the long-standing relationship and acknowledged Ethiopia’s consistent support of Rwanda during challenging periods.
Ethiopia’s engagement in similar defense agreements has expanded recently. In November 2022, a delegation from Kenya, led by General Charles Kahariri, finalized a military collaboration agreement with Ethiopia to enhance regional security and stability. Additionally, discussions with Qatar in March on military relations indicate Ethiopia’s commitment to broaden its defense partnerships internationally.
Further strengthening military ties, Field Marshal Berhanu also visited South Africa in September 2023 to discuss cooperation with General Rudzani Maphwanya. Ethiopia has also signed defense agreements with South Sudan and the United Arab Emirates, indicating its strategic focus on regional military alliances.
The recent defense cooperation agreement between Rwanda and Ethiopia signifies a continued trend of military collaborations in the region, highlighting mutual interests in security and stability. The agreement encompasses critical areas like counterterrorism and military training, reflecting both nations’ commitment to enhancing their defense capabilities. Ethiopia’s ongoing diplomatic engagements with various countries further illustrate its strategic approach to military alliances.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
