Addis Ababa, January 22, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and Belarus have signed a bilateral memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation in the military sector.
The agreement was signed today by Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense, Aisha Mohammed, and her Belarusian counterpart, Dmitry Pantes.
Speaking on the occasion, Minister Aisha Mohammed emphasized that the MoU is a significant step toward elevating Ethiopia’s military technology and defense industry, as well as advancing the country’s goal of self-sufficiency in military production.
She added that Ethiopia’s strategic position at the center of Africa positions it to create a common market, generating mutual benefits through this collaboration.
Minister Aisha also recalled prior agreements reached between the two countries’ leaders, noting that they provide a foundation for implementing the current strategic pact and will further strengthen the long-standing friendship between Ethiopia and Belarus.
“The bilateral agreement is expected to elevate cooperation between our two friendly nations and holds substantial strategic significance,” she said.
For his part, Dmitry Pantes highlighted ongoing joint projects between the two countries and said the agreement will open opportunities for collaboration across additional sectors.
According to the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) online media, the Belarusian Air Force will participate in an air show during the 90th anniversary celebration of the Ethiopian Air Force, which begins tomorrow. The Belarusian delegation will also attend the event as part of the ongoing military engagement.