Mr President, Your Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen,
It is a great honour to welcome back to this country after a long absence one of the world's most distinguished statesmen, President Houphouet-Boigny.
When you were last here, Mr. President, in 1962 the Ivory Coast had not long before embarked on its path of national independence. Now, 21 years later, the results of your wise leadership are clear for all the world to see. [end p1]
For two decades the Ivory Coast has enjoyed enviable political stability and unparalleled economic growth and prosperity. It is also a model of harmony between ethnic groups and immigrant minorities. I believe that the Ivory Coast's success may have some important lessons for development theory and practice elsewhere.
First, the success has been achieved by the pursuit of liberal economic policies based on proper incentives for the producer. [end p2]
Secondly, you have always rightly insisted, Mr President, on agriculture as the main vehicle for development. And thirdly, with your emphasis on the small farmer, you have ensured that production and prosperity is broadly based.
In pursuing these policies from the outset, you have shown a far-sightedness which other developing countries could wisely emulate. Indeed, these policies are now widely recognised by such authorities as the World Bank as the most sensible way forward for developing countries. [end p3] You yourself, Mr President, have set an outstanding personal example in this.
You achievements have not been confined to the Ivory Coast. You are admired in this country as a force for moderation and a source of wisdom, both in African affairs and in the wide international arena. The discussions which we have had this morning have provided a most useful opportunity to exchange views with a leader who has enormous experience of international affairs. p5 missing [end p4]
But there is scope for broadening and deepening our bilateral relations. Your visit, Mr. President, provides a fresh impetus to this end.
This morning we agreed that Britain would make available £3.5 million in aid for spending over the next 3 to 4 years. We are also making available a line of credit of £10 million. We have also agreed that we should improve our machinery for bilateral consultations and have directed our officials to draw up a Memorandum of Understanding covering such matters as incentives to investment, cultural [end p5] exchanges, political exchanges and other matters.
We most sincerely welcome you, Mr. President, and your suite to this country. I am sure that the other engagements in the programme, including the hospitality of Her Majesty The Queen and His Royal Highness The Duke of Kent, will be as warm and as friendly occasions as this luncheon has been.