Speech of The Day (166): IN THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW, 1967

IN THE KREMLIN, MOSCOW, 1967

Mr. President:

Accept, Excellency, my deep appreciation for the kind words addressed to me and my people. It is with great pleasure that I find myself once again in your great and friendly country. The welcome which was accorded to me and through me to the Ethiopian people in my previous visit has been a rich and rewarding experience which I always recall with pleasure. In my present visit you have extended me an even greater and more friendly welcome, which I shall always deeply cherish.

The close friendship that so happily exists between our two peoples has been of long-standing. It has not only with-stood the test of time, but has even expanded and grown firmer through these years. This I am convinced will con-tinue to be strengthened and shall, as in the past, give lasting benefit to our two peoples.

The national strength of a country is measured by the human and material resources it has at its disposal. Being aware that the exploitation of my country’s natural resources requires ample technical know-how, I, throughout my reign, gave priority to the advancement of education in Ethiopia. It is with satisfaction that I note here that my endeavours in this field are bearing fruit and that my country is well on its way to becoming self-sufficient in this regard.

It is my expressed wish that the widest fruitful economic co-operation be established between our two countries. The assistance extended to Ethiopia by the USSR to raise the living standard of her people, namely, through the establishment of an oil refinery in Assab, the Technical College in Bahr-Dar and the USSR’s hospital in Addis Ababa are worthy examples of such co-operation.

The main foundation of Ethiopia’s foreign policy is to live in peace and harmony with all states and particularly with her neighbours, and in the light of this spirit and the principles of Bandung such as: non-interference in the inter-nal affairs of other states and respect for the territorial integrity of all states; to cooperate with all in various fields of human endeavour with a view to promoting the general good and welfare of mankind. Ethiopia is equally dedicated to the cause of freedom and unity in Africa and to the cause of peace and understanding in the world, in close collaboration with the sister African states, and my people shall continue to contribute their share to the struggle of emancipating our brethren, who are still under the yoke of colonial rule. We believe that whatever measure we take in order to realize our goals in attaining a completely free Africa, it can best be done through the Organization of African Unity. It is, therefore, in the best interest and for the healthy progress and development of our continent to strengthen this organization. The peoples of Africa are determined that not one inch of African soil shall remain in the hands of the colonialists and in this noble struggle we shall not fail to look for support and encouragement from our proven friends among whom the USSR is prominent.

The principles of non-interference in the internal affairs of states and respect for sovereignty and the territorial integrity of independent nations which are embodied in the Charter of the OAU and the U.N. should be implemented in full measure by member states so that the necessary climate will be created for full co-operation. If this precondition is assured, it is our firm belief, that the great goals we have set for our continent to carry, will not be out of reach.

The League of Nations, by failing to restrain the fascist aggressor, allowed the forces of evil a free reign and it was only after the sacrifice of the lives of millions of innocent people, amongst whom the people of the USSR had to bear heavy losses, and the extensive destruction to property the world over, that this evil was finally destroyed.

Injustice In Africa

Once again injustice is being committed and practised in Africa. In the case of Rhodesia the U.N. has approved sanctions, the same weapon which proved ineffective over a decade ago. I believe that this measure too is bound to fail unless it is accompanied by the use of force.

I would like to add that after much sacrifice the world has created the United Nations Organization; but the U.N. can only be effective, provided its members are willing to make it strong by giving their wholehearted support in each and every case where justice, decency and fairmindedness so demand. It is of the utmost importance that the U.N. should have at all times the confidence and support of all its members.

I would like to refer to the efforts made by my country concerning the tragic situation which still exists in Vietnam. It will be recalled that I have, on several occasions, expressed my deep concern that this grave situation has continued for so many years and that no workable solution has as yet been found. I have already expressed my readiness to avail my good offices and to do my utmost to bring the concerned parties to the negotiating table. It is with great concern that I view the present conflict in South-East Asia and deeply regret that the numerous efforts made by several states have been ignored by those actively engaged in this bitter struggle.

We are convinced that in order to save our planet from total destruction every effort and all the necessary sacrifices must be made by all peace-loving nations both big and small, towards the attainment of total and complete disarmament, and to see to it that the manifold gifts of the atom are used, instead, for the eradication of disease and poverty and the betterment of mankind.

It is my ardent belief that all nations must live in peace and friendship with each other, religion or socio-political structure notwithstanding. This right and proper attitude must, in our opinion, be cultivated and developed by all nations. I believe that all nations have to advance along the path which they think is most reasonable and desirable in accordance with their culture, tradition and sense of values. In conclusion, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the President, government and peoples of the USSR at whose invitation I am visiting this great country. I am fully confident that this present visit will further strengthen the traditional and friendly relations which exist between our two peoples. I request all gathered here to raise their glasses to this spirit of friendship, and to the health of the Soviet leaders and the continued prosperity of the peoples of the USSR as well as for the maintenance and the promotion of peace and understanding in the world.

Feb. 27, 1967.

Selected Speeches of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie – page 159 –   

Speech of The Day (165): U.C.A.A. OPENS

U.C.A.A. OPENS

..... Knowledge paves the way to love, and love in its turn fosters understanding, and leads one along the path of great common achievements .....

When today is being opened this University College, Our feeling of joy has two motivations, Our happiness is of two kinds. These are private and common. Happiness shared with many creates a source of permanent affection and understanding. But private happiness is a temporary matter.

Our endeavour to expand schools has passed from planning to achievement. Our satisfaction in the field of education is in Our days being shared by the Ethiopian people, and particularly by those who have and are profiting by it.

Thus, Our saying that this would benefit Ethiopia is now being increased greatly. As has been pointed out by Our Vice-Minister, work on the University is progressing rapidly. To make successful the work of those educational institutions of higher education, aid of the students and teachers is needed. We hope that the preparation of students and teachers is nearing completion.

We are proud to see Ethiopian youth thirsting for learning. Although the fruits of education can be applied to evil as well as to good things, you Ethiopian students should avoid having a bad reputation and be eager and energetic in your studies, be loyal to your country and obedient to your teachers, eschew lies and follow truth, respect good and be heirs of good work .....

Feb. 27, 1951

Selected Speeches of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie – page 4 –       

Speech of The Day (164): PRESS CONFERENCE REGARDING SOMALIA

 

PRESS CONFERENCE REGARDING SOMALIA

We appreciate this opportunity to meet with you representatives of the Press and explain to you certain matters dealing with relations between Ethiopia and the Republic of Somalia which have not up to now received the attention which they merit.

You are all familiar with the details of the armed aggression which the military forces of the Republic of Somalia have carried out against Ethiopia. You may not, however, be as familiar with the background against which this aggression must be viewed.

First of all, we must accept as an irrefutable fact that the Republic of Somalia is dedicated to a policy of territorial aggrandizement at the expense of her neighbours, and that she appears prepared to pursue this policy by all available means. This policy is written into Somalia's Constitution. Somalia's claims to Ethiopian territory have been repeated by her leaders not once but many times.

By contrast, Ethiopia's policy with respect to Somalia has been that the boundary established between the two countries should be respected by both. Ethiopia has never menaced or threatened Somalia, and we are asserting no territorial claims of any sort against her.

In the family of nations there are countries with populations even smaller than that of the Republic of Somalia which nonetheless live in peace and in harmony with their neighbours. However, the Somalia leaders, inspired by their expansionist policy, have resorted to force and false propaganda, have attacked Ethiopia, and have shed innocent blood in pursuit of their objectives. We have explained in the past the consequences and the dangers inherent in this policy, and We shall continue to do so. We have expressed Our sorrow that this policy continues, and We hope that the people of the Republic of Somalia have recognized the truth of what We have said.

The Somalia leaders have chosen to execute their expansionist policy in a variety of ways, ranging from falsehood to force. The Somalia Government has sent armed bands into the territories of Ethiopia and Kenya, where they attack, rob, loot and then flee into the shelter of the Republic of Somalia. At the same time, the Government of Somalia has carried on an intensive and malicious press and radio campaign against Ethiopia which is unparalleled in this day and age in its violence. The Ethiopian people and leaders have been insulted in the most vituperative and slanderous terms. Somalia's radio has called for revolution in Ethiopia and has incited subversion and sabotage. In all that she has done, Somalia has violated almost daily for the last three and one-half years the most sacred principles of the Charter of the United Nations and the Organization of African Unity. 

Reject Propaganda

By contrast, Ethiopia has refrained from replying in kind and has limited herself to defending her territory against the Somalia Government to end its propaganda against Our nation because We know that such a campaign is calculated permanently to poison relations between the people of Ethiopia and Somalia, and particularly those of ex-British Somaliland who enter Ethiopia to graze here and who also have close commercial relations with Our country.

Two weeks ago Somalia launched a direct armed attack against Ethiopia’s security forces along the frontier and earlier reports that the Somalia Government has maintained training centres in Somalia for preparing armed bandits to violate and commit acts of violence and subversion in Ethiopia were conclusively confirmed. Ethiopia promptly invoked the Charter of African Unity and requested an extraordinary meeting of the Council of Ministers of the O.A.U. Somalia, however, chose not to refer this matter to her African brothers. Instead, in an attempt to involve non-African nations in a dispute which should, initially at least, be considered by Africans, she appealed to the Security Council of the United Nations. In accordance with Ethiopia's request, and, belatedly, Somalia’s, the Council of Ministers met at Dares-Salaam. Ethiopia has observed the Resolutions adopted there but, in direct violation of these Resolutions, Somalia has ceased neither her armed attacks nor her propaganda campaign and has continued her aggression against Our nation.

In recent days, Somalia has embarked upon a new course. First, she alleged that American and Israeli aircraft were involved in hostilities on Ethiopia's side, then that British troops had joined Ethiopian forces in action against Somalia. These charges are, of course, unfounded and are complete fabrications, as is virtualy everything emanating from Mogadiscio these days. Ethiopia is self-reliant. We need no non-African assistance to defend our soil. Ethiopia has strained every energy to ensure that Africans themselves refrain from and avoid the shedding of African blood, and the energies of all of us should be enlisted in this effort. Only a few days ago, the Prime Minister of Somalia threatened to unleash 150,000 armed nomads from the Republic against Ethiopia. To this, let Us only reply that history bears witness that, in less time than it would take to recount, were it necessary to do so, Ethiopia could have under arms one soldier for every member of Somalia’s entire population. The Prime Minister's reckless statement reflects only on those who speak in this fashion and any action such as that threatened by the Somalia leaders would have the most far-reaching consequences. Ethiopia is not boastful, but her history testifies to the courage and bravery of which she disposes in defending her territory and her independence. She has been preserved with the help of the Almighty, Who is ever at her side.

Shall Defend Soil

Thus far, Ethiopia has restrained herself. We shall continue to do so, but we shall defend our soil and our territorial integrity with all the force at our disposal. But the permanent solution to this problem lies only in Somalia's final renunciation of the policy of territorial aggrandizement which she has unswervingly followed during the last three and one-half years and which has led to the sorry state of relations between our two nations today.

One final point must be clear. There is no border conflict between Ethiopia and Somalia. The border is defined in the Treaties of 1897 and 1908, which constitute the very basis upon which Somalia was granted her independence by the United Nations. The frontier in the North, defined in the Treaty of 1897 between Ethiopia and Great Britain, has been demarcated on the ground for over thirty years. The boundary in the South, defined in the Treaty of 1908 with Italy, has not been so demarcated, but half of the countries of the world today live in peace with their neighbours while their common frontiers remain undemarcated. When the United Nations placed the former Italian colony of Somaliland under trusteeship in 1950, a Provisional Administrative Line was established by the United Nations and, at Ethiopia's insistence, this Line was defined with precision. When Somalia became independent in 1960, this same Line determined the limits of the new Republic.

It is clear that the aggression which Somalia has committed against Ethiopia is not an isolated incident or an act of recklessness unrelated to some broader pattern. It is part and parcel of the expansionist policy which Somalia has consistenly adhered to since July 1, 1960. It is equally clear that this policy is unacceptable to Ethiopia. We seek only peace. We still retain the hope that the people of Somalia who have, on various occasions, expressed their deep concern over the policies detrimental to Somalia and her people, may yet repudiate the adventure upon which their leaders have embarked in order that bloodshed may end and tranquility may once again be restored to the Horn of Africa. How far better it would be were the money expended in the pursuit of columny and aggression used, instead, for the benefit and welfare of the people of Somalia. How far wiser it would be were Somalia's leaders working in a spirit of harmony and friendship, for the improvement of relations between our two countries.

We have already explained Our position to the African leaders who have tried to reconcile our differences with Somalia and who have sent messages and special envoys to Us. For their concern, and for the interest and sympathy which they and their people have manifested, We express Our thanks. We have told them that we covet no one's territory, but that neither will we yield what is ours. We have stated our wish to live in peace and harmony with our neighbours. Seeking nothing which is theirs, we also do not seek their enmity.

Feb. 24, 1964.

Selected Speeches of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie – page 671 –   

Speech of The Day (163): WAR SETTLEMENT AND ITALY’S RETURN

WAR SETTLEMENT AND ITALY’S RETURN

At the various meetings of the Council of Foreign Ministers in London and Paris and of their deputies as well at the Peace Conference through Our Delegates We have set forth to the world the position of Ethiopia in regard to the return to Ethiopia of territories taken from her by Italian aggression. As first victim of Axis aggression in Europe and the first of the United Nations to be liberated, Ethiopia feels justified in declaring as she has already declared at the Paris Peace Conference, that any return of Italy to such territories would constitute ratification of three aggressions and an act of international injustice. It should be understandable that Ethiopia cannot possibly countenance any return of Italy to such territories other than as a direct and instant threat to one of the United Nations. We are confident that the world will readily understand that the security of Ethiopia would be completely compromised if those territories which had three times served as bases of aggression against her were to remain as such in the future. We have further pointed out that an impoverished Italy who seeks and who continued to receive foreign financial and other assistance at the same time seeks to regain territories in an attempt to launch a fourth invasion of Ethiopia, thanks to such foreign assistance. The case of Ethiopia is clear and requires no further statement. Ethiopia has fought for more than a decade for justice. It is time that she received it ....

Feb. 23, 1948.

Selected Speeches of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie – page 188 –