Addis Ababa, March 27, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and France have formalized a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the East African country’s capacity in international peacekeeping operations.
The agreement was signed today by Ethiopia’s Minister of Defense, Aisha Mohammed, and the French Ambassador to Ethiopia, Alexis Lamek.
The accord is designed to strengthen the operational readiness of Ethiopian military personnel deployed in peacekeeping missions and elevate their international capabilities. A key element of the partnership is the collaboration on training and research programs provided by the International Peace Support Training Institute and the Contingent Training School, which will adhere to international standards.
Certificates issued by the Ethiopian Peacekeeping Center under the agreement will receive broad recognition from both the United Nations and the African Union, further enhancing the global credibility of Ethiopia’s peacekeeping personnel.
The French government will provide essential technical and material support to ensure the success of the program. Specific attention will be given to improving peacekeepers’ ability to protect themselves against explosive hazards encountered during field operations, the Ethiopian National Defense Force’s online media team told Fana Media Corporation.
Officials emphasized that the partnership is expected to make Ethiopia’s contribution to international peace and security more effective, while also advancing the longstanding friendship between the two nations.