Asmara — President Isaias Afwerki said that the people are the source and guarantee of the prevailing security and stability in Eritrea, and not the police and security institutions. He made the statement in an interview with Gulf News newspaper which is based in Dubai and the Qatar-based Asharq newspaper.

Replying to a question why, unlike other leaders, he is not escorted by guards during his movement, President Isaias asserted: "the Eritrean people do not need the police and security forces." In this respect, the President underlined that the Eritrean people are governed by and comply with their culture, values and norms. And this constitutes the strength and guarantee of all national programs and security, he elaborated.

President Isaias pointed out that as long as one's behavior and style of living correspond with the objective situation of one's country and people, it gives personal satisfaction and peace of mind, and thus enable one to be effective in the accomplishment of tasks. He further emphasized that leading a life similar to that of one's compatriots is not only human and natural but is also rewarding. In this connection, the President indicated that the absence of disparity in the standard of living between government officials and ordinary citizens in the country emanates from the existing pattern of societal norms and obligations.

Highlighting the fruitful task being undertaken to promote equitable service to the society through building lean, clean, efficient and effective government and institutions, he explained that working in the interest of the people and avoiding privileges, coupled with sacrificing personal interests are the hallmark of exemplary leadership. "Such imperatives indeed give satisfaction and the greatest reward," the President emphasized.

In detailed briefings he gave as regards the strategy of food security, President Isaias noted the dire consequences of fully relying on rainfall and indicated that vigorous endeavors are being exerted to introduce modern irrigation farming. To this end, he explained that the required infrastructure facilities and manpower are being put in place which in turn are bearing encouraging outcome, taking into account the challenges encountered. The President further stated that the land tenure system that was introduced in the mid '90s has made positive contribution. He noted that despite the challenges and acts of hostility encountered, the Eritrean people persevered in struggle and overcome hurdles, and are presently registering impressive outcome in efforts to achieve food security. "The year 2009 would be a turning point," the President declared.

Regarding fishery resources, he stated that the available resources in this sector are not yet fully harnessed as the internal capacity is not so far well developed, and that the investment opportunities have not yet been adequately seized. Still, the prospects are promising, the President added.

Indicating that Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are making major strategic investment projects in various domains in Eritrea stretching up to the year 2020, President Isaias explained that the necessary mechanism is being laid so that such investment based on strategic partnership could be more effective. The projects launched earlier are equally progressing smoothly through rectifying technical problems encountered in the process, he added.

In a reply to a question why he did not so far write a book on his experience of struggle, President Isaias said that demanding as it is, the task requires full time effort. Above all, although individuals have their own role in Eritrean history, the decisive factor is that of broad masses, he explained. The President expressed hope that along with other comrades, the book would be written when the time permits.