The United States has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Ethiopia's initiatives to bolster air and land border control, a move seen as crucial for enhancing national security and immigration management.
This announcement came during a pivotal meeting between Selamawit Dawit, Director General of Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service, and Natalie Simpson, the US Program Manager for the PICSES initiative.
During their discussions, Selamawit highlighted Ethiopia’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its border security infrastructure expressing gratitude for the longstanding support from the US, which has been instrumental in fostering improvements in the sector even amid challenging circumstances.
The collaboration aims to address various security challenges, including illegal immigration and cross-border trafficking, which have become pressing issues in the region, according to her.
Selamawit emphasized the need for continued technical assistance and training from US experts to enhance Ethiopia's capabilities in managing its borders effectively, pointing out that such support is vital for implementing advanced surveillance technologies and improving operational procedures at border checkpoints.
For her part, Simpson echoed Dawit's sentiments, acknowledging Ethiopia's proactive stance on border control and expressing the US's eagerness to continue its partnership.
She noted that the US has a vested interest in ensuring that Ethiopia can effectively manage its borders, given the strategic importance of the country in East Africa.
The meeting underscored a mutual recognition of the importance of secure borders in promoting regional stability and economic development.
As Ethiopia navigates complex security challenges, the backing from the US is expected to play a significant role in enhancing its border management capabilities, she underscored.
During the occasion, it was noted that this collaboration not only reflects the US's commitment to supporting Ethiopia but also highlights the broader implications for regional security and cooperation in East Africa.
The partnership is poised to strengthen Ethiopia's border control measures, ultimately contributing to a safer and more secure environment for its citizens, according to Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service.