The Ethiopian and Russian navies have agreed to enhance cooperation focused on training and naval capacity building. This initiative was formalized during a visit by a Russian delegation, culminating in a commitment to bolster Ethiopia’s naval development. The discussions outlined Ethiopia’s strategy to modernize its naval forces and secure access to maritime resources through international collaboration.
A recent meeting between the Ethiopian and Russian navies has initiated discussions on naval cooperation centred around training and capacity building. This dialogue unfolded during a visit by a Russian delegation to Ethiopian naval facilities in Bishoftu, located 45 kilometers south of Addis Ababa. The delegation was directed by Admiral Vladimir Vorobyev, the Navy Deputy Commander, as reported by the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF).
Following this significant visit, both nations have pledged to enhance Ethiopia’s naval development and operational readiness through a formal agreement. Commodore Jemal Tufisa, Ethiopian Navy Deputy Commander for Operations, highlighted that this partnership will prioritize training and capacity enhancement. He noted the Russian navy’s commitment to bolstering Ethiopia’s naval capabilities and ensuring the country’s interests are protected in international waters.
The cooperation agreement was formalized by Commodore Jemal and Admiral Vorobyov. The initial engagement began with a Russian navy delegation’s visit in February 2022, where discussions took place with Ethiopian officials regarding the modernization of the Ethiopian Navy. During this visit, Major General Ostrikov remarked that they had observed Ethiopia’s pursuit of a robust naval institution that could instill national pride.
In subsequent communications, the Russian delegation emphasized that Ethiopia’s comprehensive strategy to enhance its naval forces would allow it to contribute significantly within the Horn of Africa, particularly in various training modalities. By March 2022, Rear Admiral Kindu Gezu, then Commander-in-Chief of the nascent Ethiopian Navy, stated the need for a capable navy able to counter both internal and external threats, urging trainees to excel in their military education.
Although Ethiopia is landlocked, it shares borders with several nations in the Horn of Africa, including Eritrea and Somalia. Recently, Ethiopia has completed training for Navy members in areas such as Navigation and Engineering. Furthermore, the nation had signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Somaliland aimed at securing maritime access and improving its reach to various seaports; however, no tangible progress has been noted regarding this initiative as of June 2023.
The discussions between the Ethiopian and Russian navies underscore a strategic alliance aimed at enhancing naval capabilities in Ethiopia. The agreement fosters training and capacity building, as both nations seek to navigate international waters with improved readiness. Despite Ethiopia’s landlocked status, ongoing efforts emphasize the nation’s commitment to developing a formidable naval force while exploring potential maritime access through partnerships.
Original Source: addisstandard.com
