July 6, 2023 (ADDIS ABABA, Ethiopia): The Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) has concluded successfully a train mission for regional integration from Djibouti to Addis Ababa, which aims to enhance the multifaceted ties between the two countries.
Speaking on behalf of the IGAD Executive Secretary Dr Workneh Gebeyehu, Hon. Siraj Fegessa Director of Peace and Security Division, described that Since the train mission commences its journey last Sunday from Djibouti Nagad station, the warm welcome given to the delegation at Dawale, Dire Dawa, Adama, Sheger City and Addis Ababa is unique but also reflects the strong bond the two countries and people have.
“We are now at the end of the mission. I’m confident that throughout the journey the delegates had the opportunity to interact to enhance the ties between the two countries around issues of migration and mobility, people to people relationships, diaspora engagement. “He stated.
“As you commence your journey back home,” in addition, he described,” I want you to reflect on the untapped potential of domesticating the IGAD Protocol on Free movement of Persons to facilitate safe, orderly and regular mobility in the region including between Djibouti and Ethiopia.”
The President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, Sahle-Work Zewde explained that the longstanding Ethio-Djiboutian diplomatic relation is exemplary in many aspects.
“We attach special attention to the strong people-to-people relations between the two countries, even prior to the inception of the public diplomacy,” the president underlined.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Demeke Mekonnen , on his part expressed that the Train Mission will further enhance the strategic cooperation between the contiguous neighbors.
The Secretary General of the Ministry of Interior of Djibouti, Siraj Omar Abdulkader said mentioned that his country is working closely to capitalize on the people-to-people ties between the two countries to boost bilateral trade.
It has been stated in the ceremony t the state Dinner that the Republic of Djibouti as a host country and currently chair of IGAD plays a critical role in advancing the IGAD regional mandate. The convening power of IGAD bringing together governments and its partners provides a platform for enhancing linkages among communities and governments. This train mission is a clear example.
The IGAD train mission for regional integration from Djibouti to Addis Ababa aims to enhance the multifaceted ties between the two countries, in the areas of migration and mobility, business and investment, tourism, people to people relationships, diaspora engagement.
Ethiopia and Djibouti are key members of IGAD that have continuously supported the institutions and its regional mandate advocating for peace and security and regional integration.
