The president said strengthened culture of tolerance enables political parties play key role in the development of a country.

Girma was speaking at the National Palace here on Friday at a state banquet thrown to different political parties.

He said political parties should make clear their objectives to nations and nationalities and compete in the elections with a view to strengthening multi-party system in the country.

The president said the government is committed to provide support to further strengthen the culture of negotiation and discussion among political parties.

The discussion held on the election code of conduct should further continue on other national affairs.

The president on the occasion called on the Ethiopian people to play their parts in the efforts to implement the agreement signed by the political parties.

Representatives of the 65 parties, which signed the agreement, on their parts called on the public to vote freely.

Finding solution through discussion should further be strengthened as it lays firm foundation for democracy in the country, the representatives said.

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