The Speaker of the House of Peoples' Representatives of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia Honorable Speaker Tagesse Chafo said “We must accept our diversity to reinforce our country."

The Speaker officially opened the forum, which started today in Jijiga, one of the 11 towns where the panel discussion will be held with the motto, "Ethiopia will triumph and transform." According to the speaker, forums have been set up in capital towns to discuss national issues at national level.

"Public discussions will continue to show that Ethiopia will stay to triumph and develop a culture of public consultation," he said.

The speaker added: To show the world that we are a country with a long history, those who claim to be interested in Ethiopia are invited to attend these forums and share ideas that will support our unity.

President of the Somali Regional State, Mustafa Mohamed, on his part urged the audience to take an active part in the forum since national issues are vital.

During the panel discussion, academic papers were presented and discoursed.

Members of the House of Federation and the Joint Council of Political Parties, representatives of civil society organizations and artists, as well as The Mohamoud Garad, the Ogazs or The Marehan, Sultans and other members of the public are participating in the forum.

On the other hand: The Ethiopian Press Agency's photo exhibition entitled "About Ethiopia" will remain open until next Thursday according to ENA.