Ethiopia and Djibouti Preparing Economic Integration Strategic Plan

Addis Ababa, 25 June 2014 (WIC) – The Ethiopian Embassy in Djibouti said that Ethiopia and Djibouti have been preparing an Economic Integration Strategic Plan.

Ethiopian Ambassador to Djibouti, Suleiman Dedefo, announced in a bid to build economic integration, preparation for mutual strategic plan is being carried out by Ethiopia and Djibouti.

The Ambassador noted the economic integration is a phenomenon that came following the strong trade relation as well as the trust between the two countries. He added a team of experts will be formed in the near future for the purpose of monitoring implementation of the strategic plan.

Suleiman also said the trade relation between the two countries is a complementary one which intends ensuring mutual benefits rather than one filled with competition. He reminded Djibouti has provided over U.S $ 1 Million for the construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.

The Djiboutian Ambassador to Ethiopia, Mohammed Idriss Farah, on his part said Ethiopia is a strategic ally to his country. He furthered the two countries have reached the stage where they enter into economic integration for the people to people and economic ties have been strengthened.

The Djiboutian Ambassador also noted the strong relations of Ethiopia and Djibouti is manifested by the Ethio-Djibouti railway network, electricity supply, road and other infrastructure developments which connect the two nations.

According to Ethiopian News Agency Djibouti is one of the major export destinations for Ethiopia. The country has imported goods that are worth U.S $ 138 Million during the first six months of the current fiscal year.

As to Ethiopia, the Agency states some 90 percent of Ethiopia’s trade activity is carried out through the port of Djibouti. (ENA)