Rwanda Formalizes Defense Agreement with Ethiopia, Enhancing Regional Cooperation

Rwanda has signed a defense cooperation agreement with Ethiopia, following a meeting between military leaders from both countries. The agreement focuses on strengthening collaboration in areas such as counterterrorism and military training, aiming to enhance their longstanding relations. Additionally, Ethiopia has engaged in similar agreements with several other countries, indicating a broader trend of regional military cooperation.

On Thursday, Rwanda became the latest country to formalize a defense cooperation agreement with Ethiopia. Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, Chief of Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), met with Lieutenant General Mubarak Muganga, Army Chief of Staff of Rwanda, to sign the agreement, which follows discussions on collaborative military opportunities during Lieutenant General Muganga’s official visit to Ethiopia.

Post-signing, Major General Teshome Gemechu, the Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation at ENDF, remarked that the two nations have shared military collaboration for years. He emphasized that the new agreement aims to strengthen existing ties and expand cooperation in vital areas such as counterterrorism, military training, and capacity building.

Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa of the Rwanda Defense Force echoed this sentiment, stating that Rwanda regards Ethiopia as a steadfast ally, especially in times of crisis. He reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to enhancing military relationships with Ethiopia, underlining their robust and enduring partnership.

Ethiopia’s defense cooperation agreements are not limited to Rwanda; in November 2022, a similar accord was reached with Kenya, focusing on strengthening military collaboration for regional stability. Additionally, discussions were held earlier in March 2023 between Ethiopian and Qatari defense officials aimed at bolstering military relations, conducted during the 8th Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition.

Field Marshal Berhanu also visited South Africa in September 2023 to discuss military cooperation with General Rudzani Maphwanya, while an agreement was signed with South Sudan on November 26, 2022, to enhance military intelligence collaboration. Moreover, Ethiopia has established military cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as well, solidifying its strategic military alliances across the region.

The recent defense cooperation agreement between Rwanda and Ethiopia underscores a growing trend of military alliances in East Africa. Both nations aim to bolster their collective security through enhanced collaboration in counterterrorism and training initiatives. This agreement, along with similar accords with other nations, positions Ethiopia as an emerging leader in regional defense partnerships, promoting stability and security across the region.

Original Source: addisstandard.com