Ethiopia and Iran have entered a new phase of bilateral engagement with the signing of a security cooperation memorandum of understanding (MoU) between their respective national police forces.
The agreement, signed in Addis Ababa by Ethiopia’s Police Commissioner General Demelash Gebremichael and Iran’s Brigadier General Ahmad Reza Radan, sets the groundwork for collaboration on issues such as cross-border crime, intelligence sharing, and capacity building through training and professional exchanges.
The Ethiopian Federal Police described the deal as a strategic step in enhancing law enforcement capabilities between the two nations. It also includes provisions for ongoing monitoring and review to ensure meaningful implementation of agreed-upon activities.
This marks one of the first formal police partnerships between Ethiopia and Iran and reflects Addis Ababa’s growing interest in diversifying its security partnerships beyond traditional allies.
The agreement follows recent moves by Ethiopia to deepen cooperation with various international law enforcement bodies. In March, Commissioner General Demelash also hosted a delegation from the United Arab Emirates, led by Lieutenant Colonel Abdullah Mohammed, Chief Forensic Investigator of the Dubai Police. Their discussions centered on cross-border investigations, extradition of fugitives, and joint forensic cooperation.
Ethiopian authorities highlighted that several suspects involved in criminal activity in Dubai had fled to Ethiopia. In response, Commissioner Demelash reaffirmed his office’s willingness to work with Emirati counterparts to ensure these individuals are apprehended and face justice.
The two sides also explored the possibility of establishing a joint task force on criminal investigations, along with experience-sharing initiatives to strengthen forensic and investigative skills within both forces.