Introductory Statement for Madeline Albright, US Secretary of State

"Her first visit to Africa in less than a year since her swearing-in as Secretary of State is a demonstration of her commitment to the strengthening of relations between the United States and Africa and of the US renewed interest in Africa. The visit coincides with the working visit to Ethiopia and other African countries of a Presidential delegation led by Congressman Charles Rangel. It should also be situated in the context of the overall initiative launched by President Clinton which seeks to build a new partnership between the United States and Africa based on the promotion of trade and investments. We welcome the President's initiative. We consider it as being aimed at accelerating growth and economic development in Africa." - Dr. Salim, December 9, 1997