Djibouti, Ethiopia: talks to strengthen economic relations

The meetings of the Djibouti-Ethiopian higher committee started in Addis Ababa on Tuesday in the presence of Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and the president of Djibouti, Ismael Omar Guelleh. The meeting will last for three days.

In a speech, Zenawi said the question of strengthening economic and social relations with Djibouti comes in top priority of his government's policy. He simultaneously commended the efforts of the joint border committee in ensuring security and stability inside the joint border areas and facilitating the movement of individuals and persons across it.

He said there is a rapid development of various economic activities between the two countries, especially Ethiopia's use of Djibouti port and bilateral trade ties and communications.

Meanwhile, the president of Djibouti underlined the importance of intensifying efforts made by the two countries to strengthen bilateral economic relations and described these relations as "an example to be followed" in serving common interests.