Ethiopia, United States Agree to Establish Comprehensive Strategic Cooperation in Defense and Security

Addis Ababa, August 21, 2026 (FMC) — Ethiopia and the United States have agreed to elevate bilateral defense and security cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership, following high-level consultations held at the Pentagon.

An Ethiopian delegation led by Major General Teshome Gemechu, Director General of Foreign Relations and Military Cooperation at the FDRE Ministry of Defense, visited the United States from August 19–20 and held bilateral consultations with counterparts and senior leaders of the US Department of War.

The consultations were co-led by Brian J. Ellis, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for African Affairs at the Pentagon.

During the consultations, the two sides agreed to open a new chapter in military and diplomatic cooperation and expand institutional engagement and strategic coordination between their defense institutions.

The emerging comprehensive strategic partnership will focus on protecting national interests and advancing mutual benefits, building lasting cooperation through strengthened mutual trust, and enhancing joint efforts toward lasting peace, security and stability in the Horn of Africa and the wider region.

Major General Teshome Gemechu and Brian J. Ellis reaffirmed their commitment to swiftly implement the agreed frameworks and advance bilateral defense relations toward a stronger, future-oriented strategic partnership.

The Ethiopian delegation also held extensive discussions with other US defense leaders and conducted institutional visits during its stay.