The Republic of Djibouti and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia share one of the longest histories of exchange and cooperation in the region of East Africa. The interconnection of the two countries, which began with the creation of a line of railroad was put in operation in 1917, continues today with the development of port, rail and road infrastructure. Development is not only embodied by opening new channels of communication in the northern regions, but also a port whose construction has already begun in Tadjourah. And if we have consolidated and increased our cooperation means that our relations go far beyond simple trade.
The close and multifaceted cooperation between the two brotherly countries has, over years, to establish special relations which remain today, a model in Africa. So, the integration is successful.
But, according to the vision of our charismatic leaders, the expansion of this cooperation is essential if we need to achieve real development. And this economic integration does not to stop between our two countries. It must go beyond and involve the whole region. It is in our interest.
This is why the Republic of Djibouti, through the voice of its President, His Excellency Ismail Omar Guelleh, reiterated at every opportunity his desire to consolidate and strengthen bilateral relations between Djibouti and Ethiopia, to cement more this regional integration policy that keeps us both heart.
My wish is to come together to contribute significantly to consolidate and permanently cement the ancestral relationships that bind the Republic of Djibouti to Ethiopia.
Our governments need to focus on strategic and priority issues for quickly achieving concrete results, achieve our common goals and meet the expectations of our people.
Furthermore, we welcome the excellence of our cooperation in the area of peace, security and regional stability. And the work that our forces are doing daily in Somalia is simply outstanding. This military sustained effort will restore peace and liberate from fear this martyred Somali people.
His Excellency