Rwanda Signs New Defense Cooperation Agreement with Ethiopia

Rwanda and Ethiopia have signed a defense cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing military collaboration in areas such as counterterrorism and training. The agreement follows discussions during Lt. Gen. Mubanga’s visit to Ethiopia and reinforces a long-standing relationship between the two nations. Ethiopia has been actively pursuing similar agreements with multiple countries, including Kenya and Qatar, to bolster regional security.

On Thursday, Rwanda and Ethiopia formalized a defense cooperation agreement, signed by Field Marshal Berhanu Jula of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) and Lieutenant General Mubarak Muganga of the Rwandan Army. This agreement was the result of discussions regarding possible areas of military collaboration during Lt. Gen. Mubanga’s visit to Ethiopia.

Major General Teshome Gemechu, the ENDF Director General of External Relations and Military Cooperation, stated that Ethiopia and Rwanda have a history of military collaboration. He emphasized that this new agreement aims to enhance their ongoing cooperation, particularly in counterterrorism, training, and military capacity building programs.

Brigadier General Patrick Karuretwa from the Rwanda Defense Force confirmed the enduring relationship between the two nations. He noted Ethiopia’s historical support for Rwanda and reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to strengthening military ties with Ethiopia.

Ethiopia has been increasing its military cooperation with multiple nations. In November 2022, a military delegation from Kenya signed an agreement with Ethiopian officials to reinforce their military collaboration. Additionally, in March 2023, Qatar’s Deputy Prime Minister discussed enhancing military relations with Ethiopian defense officials during the Doha International Maritime Defense Exhibition.

In September 2023, Field Marshal Berhanu met with South Africa’s Chief of the National Defense Force to further discuss setting a robust partnership. A similar agreement was also signed with South Sudan in November after talks between their respective military intelligence leaders. Moreover, Ethiopia has initiated military cooperations with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The recent defense cooperation agreement between Rwanda and Ethiopia signifies a strengthening of military ties, focusing on essential areas such as counterterrorism and training. This agreement is part of a broader trend of Ethiopia enhancing defense collaborations with several nations, indicating its commitment to regional security and stability. The continued partnerships with countries like Kenya, Qatar, South Africa, and South Sudan solidify Ethiopia’s strategy of fostering military alliances in the region.

Original Source: addisstandard.com