Ethiopia and Russia Forge Agreement for Naval Cooperation

Ethiopia and Russia have agreed to enhance naval cooperation, focusing on training and capacity building. The agreement was reached during a visit by a Russian delegation, led by Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev, to Ethiopian naval facilities. Commodore Jemal Tufisa highlighted the commitment to supporting Ethiopia’s naval development.

The navies of Ethiopia and Russia recently engaged in discussions regarding potential cooperation, with a primary focus on training and enhancing operational capacity. This dialogue occurred during a visit by a Russian delegation to Ethiopian naval facilities located in Bishoftu, approximately 45 kilometers from the capital, Addis Ababa. Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev, the Russian Navy’s Deputy Commander, led the delegation, and both parties expressed commitment towards strengthening Ethiopia’s naval capabilities and overall readiness.

The agreement for collaboration was formally signed, committing both nations to work together in naval training and capacity development. Commodore Jemal Tufisa, the Ethiopian Navy’s Deputy Commander for Operations, emphasized the Russian navy’s dedication to bolstering Ethiopia’s naval infrastructure and protecting its interests in international waters.

This current agreement builds upon earlier engagements, with a prior Russian delegation visiting Ethiopia in February 2022 to evaluate modernization efforts within the Ethiopian Navy. Major General Ostrikov, leading that delegation, recognized Ethiopia’s advancements in establishing a reputable institution within its naval forces.

In subsequent statements, Rear Admiral Kindu Gezu noted that Ethiopia is in the process of constructing a navy capable of addressing both domestic and foreign threats. He stressed the necessity for naval trainees to effectively complete their training, which takes place both in Ethiopia and abroad.

Despite being a landlocked nation in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia has made progress in establishing a naval force, having graduated its first cadre of trained naval members in June 2023 across various specialties, including Navigation and Engineering. Ethiopia has also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland aimed at enhancing maritime access, though tangible outcomes remain pending.

The recent discussions between Ethiopia and Russia signify a pivotal step towards bolstering Ethiopia’s naval capabilities through enhanced training and cooperation. With a commitment to ongoing collaboration and the modernization of Ethiopia’s naval forces, the nations aim to secure and safeguard the interests of Ethiopia in international waters. This partnership also aligns with Ethiopia’s strategic objectives to improve its maritime presence and capabilities in the Horn of Africa.

Original Source: addisstandard.com