On the sidelines of the recently concluded Defence Leaders Conference in Addis Ababa, key defense officials from Rwanda engaged in high-level discussions with Ethiopian military leadership to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation.
Ambassador Maj Gen (Rtd) Charles Karamba, Rwanda’s envoy to Ethiopia, and Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, Director General of the International Military Cooperation (IMC), were received by Field Marshall Berhanu Julu, Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF).
The discussions centered on existing bilateral defense cooperation between the two nations, with an emphasis on peacekeeping, intelligence sharing, and training programs. Both Rwanda and Ethiopia have a robust presence in United Nations peacekeeping missions, with Rwanda recognized as one of the largest contributors of troops globally. This shared commitment to global peace and security has fostered a strong foundation for defense cooperation between the two countries.
Rwanda and Ethiopia also explored new avenues to further strengthen their partnership. The two nations have historically collaborated on various regional security initiatives, particularly within the framework of the African Union (AU). Ethiopia, which hosts the headquarters of the AU, and Rwanda, a vocal advocate for regional stability, have both played key roles in promoting peace and security on the continent. The discussions highlighted the potential for joint military exercises, enhanced training programs, and cooperation on counter-terrorism initiatives as new areas of collaboration.
The Defence Leaders Conference, which brought together military officials from across the region, served as a platform for participating countries to address common security challenges and promote cooperation. Both Rwanda and Ethiopia are strategic partners within the East African region, and their collaboration is seen as crucial for maintaining stability in areas affected by conflict. With ongoing security concerns in the Horn of Africa, the discussions underscored the importance of coordinated efforts to tackle issues such as terrorism, armed insurgency, and cross-border crime.
The meeting between Maj Gen (Rtd) Charles Karamba, Brig Gen Patrick Karuretwa, and Field Marshall Berhanu Julu reflects the continued commitment of both countries to regional peace and cooperation. By enhancing defense ties, Rwanda and Ethiopia aim to strengthen their capacity to respond to security threats, support peacekeeping operations, and contribute to the stability of the African continent.
