China to finance development projects in South Sudan

August 31, 2007 (JUBA) — China said ready to fund developments projects in southern Sudan. The visiting Chinese delegation has agreed with the Southern Sudan government to finance several infrastructures projects.

South Sudan government and the government of China have agreed on several projects in the south such as; the generation of hydro-electricity, construction of housing and roads, building of oil refineries, in addition to building stadiums and cultural centers.

The delegation arrived earlier last week to Juba in a follow-up visit after the recent visit of the Sudanese First Vice-President and President of Southern Sudan Government to Beijing in July 2007.

The head of the Chinese delegation, Wang Kuili, said China is looking at different sectors including health, education, water supply, roads and bridges, and the agriculture sector for development.

Luka Biong Deng, the Minister for presidential Affairs said the two parties discussed means to finances these development projects. He disclosed that the visiting delegation will be back soon to prioritize projects and to determine what can support and what can finance through loans.

He further said that discussions focused on health and how to provide health services to all the 10 states in southern Sudan.

(ST)