Ethiopian PM holds talks with US official, Somali minister

Oct 7, 2005 (ADDIS ABABA) — Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks with the US deputy assistant secretary of state for African affairs, Donald Yamamoto, here on Friday 7 October. Meles has also received a message from the Somali president.

During the talks, Meles and Yamamoto exchanged views on all-round bilateral cooperation between Ethiopia and the US. The two officials discussed, in particular the development cooperation existing between the two countries, according to a spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also exchanged views on the prevailing situations in the Horn of Africa.

While receiving the message sent by Somali president and delivered by International Cooperation Minister Abdirizaq Usman, Meles said Ethiopia would continue its unreserved effort to ensure sustainable peace and stability in Somalia. He also assured the minister that his country would further continue maintaining peace and stability in Somalia, as peace in Somalia means peace in Ethiopia.

Meles and the minister discussed the efforts being made by the African Union and Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring about sustainable peace in Somalia.

Abdirizaq told journalists after the talks that Ethiopia has a significant contribution in maintaining peace and stability, and to the national reconciliation efforts in Somalia. He said efforts are being made now to set up governmental structure and justice administration in all parts of Somalia.

Somali Prime Minister Ali Gedi has also sent a message to Meles stating that the bilateral cooperation between the two governments would further be enhanced.

(ENA/ST)