Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye, also the current Chairperson of the African Union, visited Ethiopia's Ministry of Defense in Addis Ababa on Thursday, April 9, 2026. During his official working visit, he lauded the Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF) as a "pride of Africa," highlighting its role in safeguarding Ethiopia's sovereignty and its contributions to regional peacekeeping. Ndayishimiye specifically referenced the ENDF's involvement in the African Union Mission in Burundi (2003-2006) and joint peacekeeping efforts in Somalia. He also acknowledged Ethiopia's support and training for the Burundian military, expressing confidence that his visit would elevate bilateral military cooperation. Ethiopian Defense Minister Aisha Mohammed echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the strong partnership and Ethiopia's readiness to deepen collaboration in military industry and joint training for mutual security and regional peace.