Djibouti independence day highlights US partnership, economic opportunities
Djibouti Ambassador Mohamed Siad Doualeh and Mrs. Fatouma Aouled hosted a reception to commemorate Djibouti’s 49th anniversary of independence on June 25 at The Willard Hotel.
The diplomatic community and Djibouti diaspora enjoyed featured cultural performances by the Somali Cultural Center of Minnesota and heard from Doualeh, who spoke on a range of topics, from economic investment opportunities in Djibouti to bilateral relations with the US.
“Our deepest gratitude goes to the members of the diaspora in North America, in particular the US and Canada. We are proud of you, and we are confident in your ability to deliver for the country, the countries that generously welcome you and your home country, Djibouti,” said Doualeh.
“The friendship between Djibouti and the United States has grown steadily over the years, built on mutual respect, shared interests and a commitment to peace, security and prosperity. Our friendship continues to serve as a model of constructive cooperation and strategic partnership.”
Jessica Long, acting principal deputy assistant secretary for African affairs at the State Department, spoke on Djibouti’s role in global security, which acts as a gateway for safe navigation in the Red Sea and is host of the US’s only permanent military base in Africa, Camp Lemonnier.
“Our respective anniversaries, are not only important milestones for each country, they also underscore the longstanding partnership that has been established between us, one that has enabled economic development, advancement, as well as cooperation on regional international security issues,” said Long.
Djibouti was formerly under colonial rule as French Somaliland and later the French Territory of the Afars and the Issas, until it gained its status as a soveriegn nation from France on June 27, 1977.
Photos courtesy of the Embassy of Djibouti.
Meridian celebrates diplomacy for America’s 250th
In honor of America’s semiquincentennial, Meridian International Center partnered with Google Arts & Culture for a unique presentation of emerging innovation and cultural heritage.
The June 24 event at the Meridian House opened with a roundtable bringing together Meridian leadership, Google executives and leaders in diplomacy and government. They discussed how artificial intelligence can preserve American history and culture as well as increase global access to it.
The evening continued with a garden party, where guests experienced an array of interactive elements, from an AI-powered photo experience, to a Waymo autonomous vehicle.
Meridian Executive Vice President Natalie Jones, Vice Chair of the White House Council of Economic Advisers Aaron Hedlund, and President of Global Affairs at Google & Alphabet Kent Walker all presented remarks on America’s 250th and the importance of ensuring history remains accessible and engaging for future generations.
Rwandan embassy celebrates liberation, America’s birthday
Earlier this month, the Embassy of Rwanda celebrated the 32nd anniversary of its country’s liberation and the 250th anniversary of the United States’ independence.
Kwibohora, or Liberation Day, marks the day that the Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF) captured the capital city, putting an end to the Tutsi Genocide in 1994.
Over 250 diplomatic guests gathered for a reception on July 7 to honor the two countries. It was a unique opportunity to recognize each country’s journey to freedom and the growing relationship between the US and Rwanda.
“Rwanda has shown the world what is possible when a nation chooses to build rather than break. As you mark 32 years of liberation, know that the United States stands with you, as a friend, as a partner and as a fellow believer in the promise of a more peaceful and prosperous Africa,” said Sarah Troutman, deputy assistant secretary for the Bureau of African Affairs at the State Department.
Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana reflected on the anniversary and Rwandan progress, “Our liberation was achieved through great sacrifice, guided by the vision of a better society.”
Remembering the sacrifice of liberation was an important aspect of the celebration. The United States Rwandan Community Abroad paid tribute to those who lost their lives preserving the unity and security of Rwanda.
Following the tribute were traditional performances from members of the Rwandan community. These performances carried the message of a lasting heritage that transcends generations and borders.
Photos courtesy of the Embassy of Rwanda.
US-Mexico Foundation welcomes Ambassador Lazzeri
On July 7, the US-Mexico Foundation held a reception for newly appointed Mexican Ambassador Roberto Lazzeri to welcome him to Washington.
Ambassador Lazzeri presented his credentials to Monica Crowley, chief of protocol at the State Department, on June 24. One of his goals as ambassador is to promote a bilateral agenda between the United States and Mexico.
The welcome reception followed a meeting with the US-Mexico Foundation team and board, where Ambassador Lazzeri was briefed on the organization’s mission and initiatives.
The US-Mexico Foundation highlighted its commitment to strengthening the partnership between the United States and Mexico through communication and cooperation, while looking forward to further collaboration with the Embassy of Mexico.
Lazzeri replaces Esteban Moctezuma, who had served as Mexico’s envoy in Washington since 2021.
