Ethiopia would work for stable Somalia: Hailemariam

Addis Ababa, September 19, 2012 (WIC) - Somalis have shown their commitment to rebuilding their nation by electing their leader in a free and fair election, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hailemariam Desalegn said on Sunday at the inaugural ceremony of Somalia’s new President, Hassan Skeikh Mohamud.

Hailemariam who attended the inaugural ceremony of President Mohamud in Mogadishu said the role of the Somali People was at forefront in the process to bring peace and stability in their nation, adding that peace loving neighboring like Ethiopia have also played great role in the process.

He also mentioned the relentless efforts made by the late Ethiopian Prime Minister, Meles Zenawi to bring peace and stability in Somalia.

Hailemariam said the friendship of the two nations is embedded in people to people relations, adding that Ethiopia has been a second home to Somalis for the past two decades.

On the occasion, Hailemariam confirmed that Ethiopia would continue its positive role in working for lasting peace and stability in Somalia.

Outgoing Chairperson of the African Union Commission, Jean Ping for his part praised the Union’s member countries that helped Somalia to the historic day. He also called on Somalis to repeat the commitment they have shown in electing their leader in building their country.

According to ENA, higher officials from various countries including Djiboutian PresidentIsmail Omar Guelleh attended the ceremony.