Ethiopia: Defense Minister Aisha Holds Talks with French Ambassador Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed held talks with French Ambassador to Ethiopia Stéphane Gompertz on strengthening bilateral defense cooperation. During the meeting, both sides discussed areas of mutual interest, including counterterrorism, regional security, and military training. According to the Ministry of Defense, Minister Aisha expressed her appreciation for France’s continued support in the fight against terrorism and its efforts to enhance regional stability. Ambassador Gompertz reaffirmed France’s commitment to working with Ethiopia in these areas and his country’s willingness to provide training and equipment to the Ethiopian military. The talks also covered the current situation in the Tigray region, with Minister Aisha providing an update on the ongoing peace process and the need for reconciliation and recovery. The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to continue strengthening defense ties and exploring areas for further collaboration. France has been a key partner of Ethiopia in various sectors, including defense and security. The two countries have maintained close military cooperation over the years, with France providing training and equipment to the Ethiopian armed forces. The meeting between Minister Aisha and Ambassador Gompertz is expected to further deepen defense cooperation between Ethiopia and France and enhance regional security and stability.Ethiopian Defense Minister Meets with French AmbassadorEthiopian Defense Minister Meets with French Ambassador On Thursday, Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed held a meeting with French Ambassador to Ethiopia Remi Marechaux. During the meeting, the two officials discussed ways to strengthen military cooperation between Ethiopia and France. According to the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), the two countries have a long history of military collaboration. Ambassador Marechaux conveyed a congratulatory message from his French counterpart to Minister Mohammed. The details of the message were not disclosed. The meeting ended with a reaffirmation of the commitment to enhance military ties between Ethiopia and France in the future.Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed held discussions with French Ambassador to Ethiopia Rémi Maréchaux on Tuesday, August 8, 2023, in Addis Ababa. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral defense cooperation between Ethiopia and France. Minister Aisha and Ambassador Maréchaux discussed areas of mutual interest, including defense industry collaboration, training, and capacity building. Minister Aisha expressed Ethiopia’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and appreciated France’s support in this regard. Ambassador Maréchaux reaffirmed France’s commitment to deepening defense ties with Ethiopia and supporting the country’s efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. The meeting concluded with both parties agreeing to continue engaging in regular dialogue and cooperation to advance their shared defense interests.