Longtime Emperor of Ethiopia (1892 - 1975) who reigned from 1930 to 1974. Selassie is one of the most revered figures among followers of the Rastafari movement, whose members view him as a symbol of God incarnate. TLS, one page, 8.25 x 10.75, official Imperial Palace letterhead, December 11, 1955. Letter to Theodor Heuss, the first President of the Federal Republic of Germany. In part: "We have deeply appreciated the gracious and generous gift of the figurines and flower holders in porcelain, which Your Excellency has sent to Us on the occasion of the Silver Jubilee of Our Coronation, by the intermediary of the Special Representative Of Your Excellency to these ceremonies, His Excellency Dr. Hans Bidder, Envoy Extraordinary Minister Plentipotentiary of Germany in Ethiopia." In fine condition. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope. The year before, Emperor Haile Selassie became the first foreign head of state to visit the Federal Republic of Germany, then generally referred to as West Germany. Selassie was interested in learning how the technical achievements of the west could be imported to his empire on the Horn of Africa, visiting steelworks and hospitals throughout Germany. The diplomatic bonds forged between the nations during this trip laid the foundation for strong ties today, and Germany remains one of the largest export markets for Ethiopian goods.Format: TLS