Sudanese public diplomacy delegation arrives in Ethiopia
By Tesfa-Alem Tekle
May 8, 2016 (ADDIS ABABA) – A Sudanese public diplomacy delegation arrived in the Ethiopian Capital, Addis Ababa, on Sunday for a week-long official visit.
The delegation was welcomed with a congenial Coffee Ceremony- the Best Feature of Ethiopian Hospitality in the presence of Ambassador Taye-Atske-silassie, State Minister of Foreign Affairs and House speaker Abadula Gemeda among others.
In his welcome address, Speaker Abadula Gemeda, on behalf of the people and government of Ethiopia, expressed his pleasure to welcome the Sudanese delegation.
The Speaker underscored that the visit would further bolster the historic and long-standing brotherhood and solidarity between the two countries.
“Though Ethiopia will not be new to you, during your stay, we are hopeful that you will explore further opportunities of partnership in order for the two countries to grow together,” Abadula said.
Head of the Sudanese Delegation, Omer Suleiman Adam, for his part praised the hospitality extended to his team.
The public diplomacy team, he said, would further bolster social and economic ties, leading to stronger government-to-government bonds.
“It would nurture peace and prosperity between the two brotherly countries” he said adding “We believe that we are one people living in two countries”
The delegation later today paid visit to Addis Ababa light railway and modern highway projects.
It is also expected to visit mega projects including Grand Ethiopia Renaissance Dam, a massive multi-billion dollar power plant project the horn of Africa’s country is building at Nile River near the Sudanese border.
The delegation is also expected to meet Ethiopian Prime Minister, Hailemariam Desalegn and other higher government officials.
The Sudanese public diplomacy delegation is comprised of more than 70 members drawn from Parliamentarians, Academia, Women, youth, and Artists.
(ST)