Arab investment conference calls for writing off Sudan’s debts

CAIRO, Feb 20, 2004 (MENA) — The first Arab conference on investment and development in south Sudan called Friday for referring a request to the forthcoming Arab summit due in Tunis on 29-30 March to write off Sudan’s debts to Arab countries.

The one-day conference under the auspices of the Arab League secretary-general recommended the formation of a working group to prepare for a second conference after signing a final peace agreement between the Sudanese government and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM).

A Sudanese government delegation to the conference submitted a list of development projects needed in the country as well as Sudanese investment incentives.

The conference also called for continued efforts to set up a fund to support investment projects in south Sudan through contributions from the Sudanese government and Arab countries and funds.

The conference was attended by some 200 Arab businessmen and representatives of specialized Arab organizations, funds and chambers of commerce.