[ Home ] [ Speeches & statements ]

13 February 2009

The Minister of Defence Mr Charles Nqakula is to pay a two days official visit to the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia from 12 to 13 February 2009. During the visit, Minister Nqakula will sign an agreement on defence co-operation between South Africa and the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.

The agreement will strengthen the defence co-operation of the two defence forces and further consolidate the current friendly and good ties that exist between the two countries.

In 2004, the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia joined forces with South Africa during the peacekeeping operations in Burundi.

In this regard, the agreement will seek to promote close co-operation, mutual understanding and collaboration between the two countries in matters of defence, including in peace operations of the African Union and the United Nations.

Ethiopia is one of the major role players in the Horn of Africa region and as such South Africa views this agreement as of strategic importance in the context of peace, stability and development on the African Continent

Through the Agreement, both countries will work towards achieving the following:
* to develop and formulate procedures for military co-operation between their respective Armed Forces;
* promote the training of military personnel through the exchange of trainees, instructors and observers;
* promote technical co-operation;
* co-operate in the field of military medical services;
* co-operate in the exchange of knowledge and training in the field of United Nations and African Union peacekeeping operations and
* encourage the exchange of military personnel at all levels to enhance sport and cultural links between the Armed Forces of the two countries.

Media enquiries:
Sam Mkhwanazi
Contact: 083 628 0858

Issued by: Department of Defence
13 February 2009