Ethiopia, Somalia discuss trade and security
March 15, 2007 (MOGADISHU) — Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin has said that Ethiopia wants to further strengthen relations with Somalia. An Ethiopian delegation led by the foreign minister made a two-day working visit in Mogadishu to discuss trade and security relations.
During talks with Somali President Abdullahi Yusuf, Seyoum said that Ethiopia wants to work hand in hand with Somalia to further strengthen the existing trade and security relations. He said the former rulers tried to separate the two countries, who share a common culture, language and religion. However, the current situation is so conducive than ever before for the people of the two countries to work hand in hand.
The president of the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia said that after the removal of the extremist group from Mogadishu, peace and stability in the capital has improved very much. He said the government is ready to hold a reconciliation conference to secure the prevailing peace and stability.
President Yusuf said the majority of Mogadishu residents are peace loving people and are also ready to play their part in the efforts under way to rebuild the nation. He said concerted efforts are under way to combat the few attacks carried out in the capital by remnants of the extremist group. He called for the support of the international community in the efforts under way to rebuild the country.
The Ethiopian delegation, headed by Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin, arrived in Mogadishu yesterday for a two-day working visit. On arrival at Mogadishu Airport, Seyoum was welcomed by senior government officials.
(ST)