Ethiopia and Pakistan have agreed to strengthen cooperation in defence and aviation, aiming to deepen bilateral ties between the two countries. The understanding was reached on Monday during a meeting in Islamabad between Ethiopia’s Special Envoy and Ambassador Extraordinary, Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula, and Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Defence, Khawaja Muhammad Asif.
During the talks, both sides emphasized the importance of closer collaboration in areas that could benefit regional security and development. Defence cooperation was highlighted as a priority, with a focus on knowledge sharing and strengthening institutional ties. Aviation also emerged as a key area for expansion, with Ethiopia expressing its willingness to broaden air connectivity with Pakistan.
Dr. Jemal Beker Abdula informed the minister about Ethiopia’s recent inauguration of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). He underlined that the dam was constructed on the principle of equitable and fair water utilization, ensuring that it promotes regional integration without harming neighboring countries. The envoy stressed that Ethiopia’s development projects aim to create stability and prosperity not only for the Ethiopian people but for the wider region as well.
On aviation, Ambassador Abdula spoke about Ethiopia’s advancements in the sector. He expressed keen interest in increasing flight destinations to Pakistan, beyond the existing route to Karachi. Expanding aviation links, he noted, would encourage greater trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between the two nations.
For Pakistan, officials see Ethiopia as a gateway to Africa, with potential to enhance trade relations and strengthen diplomatic engagement on multiple fronts. Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif welcomed the proposals and assured Ethiopia of Pakistan’s commitment to stronger bilateral cooperation.
The meeting is seen as a step forward in building long-term partnerships. Analysts say that such initiatives not only bring immediate benefits but also help countries navigate shared challenges in a changing global environment.
International cooperation in sensitive areas like defence and aviation often reflects broader global trends of accountability and partnership. Recently, the UN Human Rights Council launched a probe into rights abuses in Afghanistan, showing how international bodies and states are taking active steps to address pressing concerns. Similarly, Ethiopia and Pakistan’s agreement reflects the growing importance of cooperation in shaping stronger futures.
As discussions progress, observers will be watching how both countries turn these commitments into practical outcomes that strengthen ties and open new opportunities.
