Ethiopia, Djibouti Need to Strengthen Cooperation to Combat Illegal Activities in Border Areas

Addis Ababa  November 7/20224 (ENA) Ethiopia and Djibouti need to strengthen cooperation to combat illegal activities in their border areas through further enhancing their bilateral relations, Selamawit Dawit, Director General of Ethiopia’s Immigration and Citizenship Service said.

The 28th Ethio-Djibouti Joint Border Administrators and Commissioners meeting has begun in Bishoftu Town today.

The director general noted that the relationship between Ethiopia and Djibouti is unique, built on strong people-to-people ties and shared destiny.

The meeting offers a key platform to review past efforts, tackle challenges, and strengthen future cooperation, she emphasized.

Several initiatives have been launched to improve the livelihoods of border communities, promote harmony, and ensure sustainable peace. 

However, challenges remain, including irregular migration, human trafficking, and the growing illicit trade in khat, livestock, arms, and other smuggled goods, she said.

The rampant contraband trade is causing damage to the  economies of both countries and decisive action is needed, she stated.

She urged both delegations to focus on these critical issues, conduct a thorough review and propose solutions to their governments.

“The threat posed by terrorist groups and anti-peace elements must also be addressed. The current political and security crises in the region, driven largely by external actors, provide a fertile environment for armed groups. Strengthened coordination among institutions and security agencies is essential to counter these threats," she underlined.

Recalling the meeting held in Djibouti in 2021, she said that we had agreed to coordinate efforts on key issues such as governance, security, and economic affairs; adding it is now crucial to evaluate our progress, learn from successes and shortcomings, and ensure continued cooperation. 

Finally, she said I am confident that through our shared commitment, unity, and resolve, we will overcome the challenges ahead and pave the way for a brighter, more prosperous future.

Secretary General of Djibouti's Ministry of Interior, Souleiman Moumin Robleh on his part emphasized the importance of the meeting, which focused on peace and security issues in border areas and explored ways to further enhance cooperation between the two countries.

 

He added that Djibouti is committed to working with Ethiopia to ensuring peace and development and fight against illegal activities in the border areas. 

This committee plays a vital role in discussing issues of mutual interest to consolidate the relationship between Ethiopia and Djibouti, he added.

Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Djibouti, Birhanu Tsegaye, stated that the meeting's agenda was to evaluate the situation in the border areas between Ethiopia and Djibouti. 

 

Key topics of discussion included human trafficking, trade, security issues, and the livelihood of communities in these regions, he said.

Given the close trade and infrastructure ties between the two countries, it is crucial to assess both achievements and challenges in the border areas and set a clear direction for addressing the problems, the ambassador said. 

Immigration officials, commercial representatives, security personnel and other stakeholders from both countries are participating in the two-day meeting.