|
|
| Posted to the web on June 08, 2008 |
|
|
|
June 8, 2008 (Addis Ababa) - Ethiopia and neighboring regions of South Sudan here on Sunday signed an agreement enabling to strengthen existing cooperation in trade, education, transport and capacity building sectors.
The agreement, signed at the closing of the two-day Ethio-South Sudan consultation forum, would enhance the existing relations between Ethiopia and Sudan.
State minister of foreign affairs, Dr. Tekeda Alemu and South Sudan Regional Corporation Minister, Dr. Barnaba Maria Benjamin signed the agreement.
Dr. Tekeda on the occasion said the agreement would help strengthen existing relations between the peoples in the neighbouring regions.
Dr.Benjamin on his part said the agreement is a foundation to enhance historical relations between the two countries.
Director-General of the Ethiopian Roads Authority (ERA), Zayid Woldegabriel told ENA that the two parties have reached agreement to undertake three road projects linking Ethiopia and South Sudan. The roads are expected to enhance socio-economic relations between the peoples.
Zayid said there are plans to connect the Gambella-Etang-Jikawo road, which is under construction, to Malakal. The Mizan-Teferi Dima road would also be linked to Boma.
The two parties have agreed to launch construction as soon as possible.
Zayid said the construction of Assosa-Kurmuk-Gizen, Gondar-Azezo-Metema and Shire-Shiraro-Humera roads linking Ethiopia to Sudan is well in progress. The construction of Gondar-Azezo-Metema asphalt road is expected to be finalized within 18 months.
Ethiopia and Sudan have earlier signed memorandum of understanding that would enable them to further strengthen their relation and to augment the border development cooperation.
(AM)
|
