Ethiopia and Rwanda have signed a defense cooperation agreement to enhance military collaboration in areas such as counterterrorism and training. This follows Ethiopia’s recent military agreements with various countries, including Kenya and Qatar, aimed at fostering regional security and cooperation in defense initiatives.
On Thursday, Ethiopia and Rwanda formalized their military collaboration by signing a defense cooperation agreement. Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), and Lieutenant General Mubarak Muganga, Rwanda’s Army Chief of Staff, oversaw the agreement, which aims to enhance military collaboration across various sectors. This agreement follows discussions on potential cooperative ventures between the two countries’ defense officials.
Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at the ENDF, noted that Ethiopia and Rwanda have maintained military partnerships for several years, emphasizing the importance of this agreement in solidifying their commitment to joint operations. Key focus areas of this cooperation include counterterrorism initiatives, training programs, and military capacity building.
Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa, Rwanda’s Director of International Military Cooperation, echoed Major General Teshome’s sentiments, highlighting Rwanda’s historical ties with Ethiopia, which has consistently supported Rwanda during critical times. This agreement marks Rwanda as the latest nation to join Ethiopia in defense cooperation.
Earlier collaborations in military agreements include one with Kenya last November, aimed at enhancing regional security and stability, as well as discussions with Qatar regarding strengthening military relations at the 8th Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition. In recent months, Field Marshal Berhanu has also engaged in dialogues with South Africa and South Sudan, establishing further military cooperation agreements, which also included the UAE.
These developments underscore the growing network of military partnerships that Ethiopia is fostering, aimed at ensuring broader regional security and effective cooperation among East African nations.
The recent defense cooperation agreement between Ethiopia and Rwanda highlights a strategic step towards enhanced military collaboration in the region. This agreement, along with prior partnerships with Kenya, Qatar, South Africa, South Sudan, and the UAE, indicates Ethiopia’s commitment to fostering security and stability through cooperative defense initiatives. Such collaborations are essential for addressing regional challenges and enhancing military capacity.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
