Ethiopia – Sudan ties said exemplary
By Tesfa-alem Tekle
February 7, 2009 (ADDIS ABABA) — Sudanese President Adviser, Mustafa Osman Ismail said existing cooperation between Sudan and Ethiopia in all spheres is exemplary among countries of the Horn of Africa.
The advisor said that Ethiopia is playing crucial role as a neighboring country to enhance the existing good cooperation with the Sudan, the ENA reported. He added the contribution and role of Ethiopia in peacekeeping mission to Darfur is commendable.
Ismail also appreciated the active participation of Ethiopia in Peace and Security Council of Africa. The effective performance of the Ethiopian peacekeeping mission has won the appreciation of the UN, he said.
The bilateral relation and cooperation has been developing, he said, adding, the Gadarif – Galabat -Gonder asphalt route which heads to connect the capitals of the two countries is a case in point.
He further said other road projects are also in the pipeline. Ethiopia is the only country which is connected by asphalt road with the Sudan among neighboring countries.
The route would further enhance the economic ties between the two countries.
He said Sudan is supplying gas and oil to Ethiopia. Sudan imports Ethiopia’s products like cement and coffee.
Ethiopia is using the port of Sudan for import and export activities that is enhancing the integration of the two countries.
The two countries are also working on power interconnection, he said .
The countries are implementing border development program that includes issues related to peace and conflict, agriculture, trade, investment, social and economy.
Ethiopia is exemplary to execute the agreement and decision passed by the nations in the border area development program.
He said the two countries would hold a joint commission meeting, which would be led by the leaders of the two countries this year to review the ongoing program and future direction.
The historical relation between Ethiopia and Sudan is getting strengthened, he said, adding, the two countries are working to further enhance their all rounded cooperation.
(ST)