Addis Ababa(Mogadishu24)-The United Kingdom’s Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) and Ethiopia’s National Information and Security Service (NISS) have agreed to enhance their collaboration on regional peace and security.

This decision was reached during a working visit to Addis Ababa by a delegation led by Sir Richard Peter Moore, head of MI6.

The delegation, welcomed at Bole International Airport by senior NISS officials, engaged in extensive discussions on various security issues. The talks covered bilateral cooperation, as well as current continental and international concerns, including the security of the Red Sea, counter-terrorism, cross-border crimes, and illegal human trafficking.

According to NISS, the agreement aims to improve information exchange to address regional threats effectively. Deputy Director General of NISS, Mr. Sisay Tola Aklewum, highlighted the importance of countering false propaganda, particularly around Ethiopia’s efforts to secure access to the sea, which has been a source of regional tension.

He stressed that misinformation could negatively impact regional stability and hinder efforts to build lasting peace.

Mr. Sisay emphasized the need for the partnership between NISS and MI6 to adapt to the evolving security landscape in the region. He also pointed out that Ethiopia has been playing a critical role in promoting stability across the Horn of Africa.

In discussing the Great Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), he called for regional cooperation, urging that the project should be a catalyst for collaboration rather than conflict.

“Ethiopia remains committed to strengthening partnerships and information sharing with other countries to foster peace and security,” said Mr. Sisay. He expressed a desire to deepen cooperation with MI6, particularly in areas such as technology and capacity building according to Ethiopia News Agency.

Sir Richard Moore reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s commitment to this enhanced cooperation, acknowledging Ethiopia’s strategic importance in the region. He assured that the exchange of intelligence and collaboration on security initiatives would continue, focusing on mutual interests and regional stability.

The meeting signifies a move to bolster Ethiopia-UK relations in security matters, with both sides looking to address shared challenges and enhance their capacity to respond to evolving threats.