the Republic of South Africa and the government of the Federal Democratic
Republic of Ethiopia.
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
