AMN Plus-July 27, 2026
Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, Chief of the General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), held high-level talks with General Dagvin Anderson, Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), focusing on strengthening defense cooperation, regional security, and expanding future military collaboration between Ethiopia and the United States.
Following the meeting, General Anderson said the defense partnership between Ethiopia and the United States continues to grow stronger across multiple areas, reflecting the two countries’ long-standing relationship and shared commitment to regional peace and security.
He said the discussions explored ways to deepen bilateral cooperation, enhance joint efforts to combat terrorism, including threats posed by Al-Shabaab and ISIS in Somalia, and identify new opportunities for future collaboration.
General Anderson also praised Ethiopia’s significant role in promoting peace and stability across the region. He noted that the joint organization of the African Logistics and Communication Symposium highlights the growing depth of defense cooperation between Ethiopia and the United States.
“The partnership between our two friendly nations extends beyond military operations,” he said, emphasizing that both countries are increasingly focused on building modern, sustainable defense capabilities to address Africa’s evolving security challenges through collective action.
According to General Anderson, the primary purpose of his visit was to co-host the African Logistics and Communication Symposium alongside the ENDF. He described the event as an important platform for sharing best practices, showcasing emerging technologies, strengthening engagement with the private sector, and enhancing the operational capacity of African defense institutions.
He further commended Ethiopia’s leadership in bringing African countries together to discuss common security challenges and promote greater continental cooperation.
Director of the ENDF Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation Directorate, Major General Teshome Gemechu, described the discussions as productive, saying they would further reinforce the long-standing friendship and defense partnership between Ethiopia and the United States.
The meeting was attended by senior military officials from both countries, including U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia Ervin Massinga, according to the Ethiopian National Defense Force.
By Birhanu Workneh
