Meles Says Yemeni President's Visit Opens New Chapter To Ethio-Yemen Bilateral Cooperation

Addis Ababa, July 22(ENA)-- Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said the visit made by Yemeni President, Ali Abdullah Saleh has opened a new chapter to the bilateral cooperation between the two countries.

He said the visit of the Yemeni leader would also help further strengthen the long-standing friendly relations existing between Ethiopia and Yemen.

Meles made the remark while briefing journalists along with President Ali, who left here for Sana'a after concluding his three-day visit to Ethiopia, at Bole International Airport here on Tuesday.

According to Meles, the visit would also enhance the trade and economic cooperation existing between the two nations.

He said the governments of Ethiopia and Yemen were committed to further consolidate the long-standing friendly relations and cooperation between the peoples of the two nations.

The Yemeni President on his part described his visit to Ethiopia as extremely successful.

Referring to the trilateral cooperation among Ethiopia, the Sudan and Yemen, Meles and President Ali said the respective governments were committed to develop the cooperation among the three countries and ensure the prevalence of peace and security in the region.

The two leaders have also expressed the readiness of the governments of the three countries to fight terrorism.

On Monday, the two leaders had held discussion on various issues with members of the business community from both countries here at the Sheraton Addis.

Meles and President Ali urged the business community to strive for the setting of Ethio-Yemeni Joint Chamber aimed at strengthening the ties between the businesspersons of the two countries.

They also pledged to extend the necessary support to further consolidate the trade relations existing between the two countries.

The two leaders have also urged the business community to create conducive atmosphere aimed at launching joint ventures.

Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and other senior government officials saw off President Ali Abdullah Saleh when he left for his home country on Tuesday.

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