Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on President Bush's Meeting With President Hassan Gouled Aptidon of Djibouti

The President held a meeting and working lunch today for President Hassan Gouled Aptidon of Djibouti. The two Presidents discussed bilateral and regional issues including the situation in the Horn of Africa.

The United States and Djibouti have maintained excellent relations since Djibouti's independence in 1977, and we are pleased to have the opportunity to develop them further.

The President thanked President Gouled for Djibouti's support of the coalition and in opposing Iraq's aggression. The two Presidents reaffirmed their support for stability in the Middle East and peace in the Horn of Africa.