Selected Speeches Of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I, 1918-1967

Noteworthy developments have occurred in the field of both domestic and international communications during the past year. Communication among men facilitates the interchange of goods and ideas, and these, in their turn, provide the stimulus for increasing the level and the rate of man's social, economic and political development. A new airline terminal was opened in Addis Ababa providing improved facilities for passengers travelling by air to and from Ethiopia. The international services of Ethiopian Airlines to Europe have been greatly expanded. New air rights have been negotiated, and new routes will be inaugurated in the near future, including a route to West Africa which, commencing next week, will link this continent more closely together. Decisions have been taken to embark upon the transformation of Ethiopian Airlines to jet aircraft and for the construction of a new and modern international airport which will be built in Addis Ababa to provide all modern traffic facilities.

Similarly, work has proceeded apace on the expansion of Ethiopia's road system. Contracts for the construction of new roads have been let, and negotiations have been carried on with the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the United States Development Loan Fund for the financing of the further expansion of Ethiopia's highways. Ultimately, even the most remote corner of Our Empire will enjoy the benefits of rapid and efficient road transportation.

Arrangements have also been concluded for additional projects which will assist greatly in improving internal communications with Our Empire. The telephone facilities operated by the Imperial Board of Telecommunications will be considerably expanded with the financial assistance of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development. Our radio broadcasting services have been improved, and work will begin shortly on the construction of powerful radio facilities which will reach every village in Our Empire and will create among our people a heightened awareness of the unity which binds Ethiopia together as one nation.

In November of last year, a Treaty was concluded between Ethiopia and the Republic of France concerning the future administration of the Franco-Ethiopian Railway, under which the Railway Company acquires Ethiopian nationality and will have its main offices in Addis Ababa. With the conclusion of this Agreement, Ethiopia becomes a full partner in the operation of this vital rail link, and this enhanced status will make its own particular contribution to the further expansion of Ethiopia's economy.

November 2, 1960.

Selected Speeches Of His Imperial Majesty Haile Selassie I

DEVELOPMENT