Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Dr. Abiy Ahmed has held high-level talks with the Commander of the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), General Michael Langley, as both countries seek to strengthen military cooperation and regional stability. The meeting took place on Friday morning at the Prime Minister’s office in Addis Ababa.
Dr. Abiy, in a brief statement posted on his official social media handle, confirmed the visit, stating:
“Received General Michael Langley, U.S. Marine Corps and AFRICOM Commander, today for discussions on bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.”
The talks were focused on enhancing military cooperation, maintaining peace and security in the Horn of Africa, and building on the longstanding relationship between Ethiopia and the United States.
The visit is part of a broader diplomatic engagement that also saw the Chief of General Staff of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF), Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, hosting General Langley and his delegation at the ENDF headquarters.
According to a statement from the ENDF, Field Marshal Birhanu described the Ethiopia-U.S. defense relationship as one rooted in history, with the two countries working together for over a century. He said Ethiopia remains committed to collaborating with the United States on security matters.
“Ethiopia and the United States have enjoyed more than 100 years of diplomatic relations. Our military cooperation reflects the mutual respect and commitment we both have toward building peace and stability,” Field Marshal Birhanu said.
In response, General Michael Langley praised Ethiopia for its crucial role in promoting peace in the Horn of Africa, particularly in Somalia, where Ethiopian troops have been instrumental in the fight against extremist groups like Al-Shabaab.
He also acknowledged Ethiopia’s leadership in regional peacekeeping missions and its dedication to combating terrorism across East Africa.
The discussions were attended by senior military and diplomatic officials from both countries, including the U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia, Mr. Ervin Massinga, who highlighted the strategic nature of U.S.-Ethiopia relations.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia’s new Ambassador to the United States, Ambassador Binalf Andualem, met with former U.S. President Donald J. Trump at the White House in Washington, D.C. It was Ambassador Binalf’s first official engagement since assuming his role.
The Ambassador was received with full diplomatic honours, a reflection of the strong historical bond between the two nations, which dates back over 120 years. Ambassador Binalf is expected to focus on strengthening economic, security, and diplomatic relations during his tenure.
In a statement following the meeting, Ambassador Binalf noted that the discussion with President Trump was the start of a series of talks aimed at building deeper cooperation.
“Ethiopia and the United States have shared values and common interests in peace, stability, and development. My goal is to work towards stronger partnerships that benefit both countries,” the ambassador stated.
These meetings come at a time when Ethiopia is working to reinforce its global partnerships following years of internal conflict and regional tensions. The recent discussions with U.S. military and diplomatic officials signal a positive direction for Ethiopia’s foreign policy and defense cooperation.
Analysts say the U.S. sees Ethiopia as a strategic ally in East Africa, especially in counterterrorism operations and peacekeeping missions. With the security situation in neighbouring countries such as Sudan and Somalia remaining fragile, strong cooperation between Ethiopia and the U.S. is considered vital for the region’s stability.
Observers also believe that the Prime Minister’s and Field Marshal Birhanu’s separate but aligned engagements with AFRICOM show a well-coordinated diplomatic and defense strategy that could lead to deeper military support and joint initiatives.
