Addis Ababa, May 13, 2025 (FMC) – Ethiopia’s Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Temesgen Truneh, called for greater regional ownership of security in East Africa and the strengthening of cooperation during his opening remarks at the East Africa Regional Meeting of the Committee of Intelligence and Security Services of Africa (CISSA) in Addis Ababa.
In his address, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen emphasized that peace and security in East Africa can only be achieved through unity and cooperation. “Our region faces hard truths. Violence continues to erupt. Crime spills across borders. Armed groups exploit division and instability,” he stated.
He reiterated Ethiopia’s long-standing commitment to solidarity and regional peace, pointing out that no country can thrive in isolation while its neighbors grapple with insecurity. “Ethiopia has long stood for solidarity—for regional peace—and for the conviction that no country can thrive in isolation while its neighbors grapple with insecurity,” he added.
The Deputy PM further highlighted the importance of collaboration, noting that joint operations and intelligence sharing have led to tangible results, disrupting criminal networks and saving lives. “We have also witnessed what is possible when nations choose collaboration over confrontation. Joint operations have disrupted criminal networks. Intelligence sharing has saved lives,” Temesgen remarked.
Mr. Temesgen stressed that lasting peace and security require more than just vision; they demand action, initiative, and a strengthening of institutions dedicated to safety and stability. “Lasting peace and security require more than vision. They demand initiative, cooperation, unwavering commitment, and the strengthening of institutions dedicated to safety and stability,” he stated.
Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen also reaffirmed Ethiopia’s commitment to regional cooperation, highlighting the need to craft African solutions to African challenges. “A peaceful and prosperous Africa is within our reach—when we craft African solutions to African challenges, embrace modern technologies, and work together to prevent cross-border crime,” he concluded.