Ethiopian, Sudanese MPs discuss bilateral relations

March 27, 2007 (ADDIS ABABA) — Members of the Ethiopia-Sudan Parliamentary Friendship Committee have voiced desire to see the bilateral cooperation agreements realized.

During their meeting here on Tuesday, the committee members said they would exert efforts towards the realization of such agreements, particularly those in the areas of roads, electricity and trade, the official ENA reported.

Chairman of the foreign, defence and security affairs standing committee of the House of Peoples’ Representatives Ambassador Mohamed Ali said more than 30 cooperation agreements have been signed between the two countries, which should stand exemplary to other countries.

Plans of action have been prepared with which to implement the various cooperation agreements, he said.

Currently, Ethiopia imports 80 per cent of its petroleum consumption from Sudan, while it exports goods to Sudan, he said. Ethiopia has also been using the port of Sudan on goods to other export destinations.

He said, the cooperation particularly in the areas of electricity, roads and telecommunications would play significant contributions for the growth of the economy.

Land and water committee member with the Sudanese National Council on the occasion commended Ethiopia for its contributions to the peace process in Sudan. He indicated the need for the two parliaments to enhance their cooperation.

(ST)