There are several countries located within the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa AOR. This article will discuss the cultural influence of the Republic of Djibouti as well as its influence on countries bordering its region. Additionally, this document will describe the global significance of Djibouti and its effect on U.S. interest within the area of ​​responsibility. Historically, Djibouti's strategic location and its status as a free trade zone within the Horn of Africa have played a major role in this country's importance throughout the world. Thus, Djibouti maintains relations with many countries and, to date, openly welcomes negotiations with other countries that could contribute to the economic development of the country. Continued U.S. interest in the country ensures financial growth in the region and has a significant impact on the development of the Djiboutian government. As a high context environment, the people of Djibouti recognize the importance of maintaining good relations with other nations in the best interest of their local government and the economic progress of their nation. Firstly, in order to understand the cultural context of Djibouti, we must have some basic knowledge and knowledge of the country's history. For thousands of years, Djibouti has facilitated trade between neighboring Arabian peninsulas. Initially, the region was known for trading hides and skins for perfumes and spices from Egypt. In the 1800s, France gained a foothold in the region through various treaties. It was not until the 1970s that Djibouti gained independence from the French government. As a result, some European influences can be seen in their culture and infrastructure...... middle of article ......ca.com/djibouti• Foreign relations of Djibouti - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (nd). Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved March 13, 2011 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreign_relations_of_Djibouti• Foreign relations of the People's Republic of China - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (nd). Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. Retrieved March 13, 2011 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreign_relations_of_the_People%27s_Republic_of_China• Culture of Djibouti - traditional, history, people, women, beliefs, food, customs, family, social. Countries and their cultures. Retrieved March 13, 2011 from http://www.everyculture.com/Cr-Ga/Djibouti.html• UNITED STATES EMBASSY DJIBOUTI - Djibouti Context. (nd). UNITED STATES EMBASSY DJIBOUTI - Home. Accessed March 13, 2011 from http://djibouti.usembassy.gov/djibouti_background.html