Djibouti City, Djibouti – Zambia and Djibouti have pledged to deepen their bilateral relations, with a focus on expanding economic cooperation. This commitment was made during the presentation of credentials by Zambia’s new Ambassador to Djibouti, Mrs. Rose Sakala.
Ambassador Sakala, upon presenting her credentials to President Ismail Omar Guelleh, highlighted Zambia’s appreciation for Djibouti’s role in regional security and trade facilitation. She pointed out Djibouti’s strategic location, boasting one of the world’s busiest shipping lanes, and its potential for boosting commerce between the two nations.
President Guelleh reciprocated the warm sentiments, acknowledging Zambia’s historical significance in the fight against colonialism and apartheid. He commended President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership in maintaining peace and stability within Zambia, as well as his contributions to the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
President Guelleh paid tribute to Zambia’s first president, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, for his pivotal role as a freedom fighter and pan-Africanist. He also extended an invitation to Ambassador Sakala to visit Djibouti frequently during her tenure.
Djibouti, seeking Zambia’s support, formally requested Zambia’s backing for its candidacy in the upcoming African Union Commission Chairperson election scheduled for February 2025.
Prior to meeting the President, Ambassador Sakala held discussions with Djibouti’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Both ministers acknowledged the geographical distance between the two countries but emphasized that it shouldn’t hinder cooperation. Minister Youssouf expressed his country’s desire to collaborate with Zambia, leveraging their unique strengths for mutual benefit.
