Sudan plans to develop media cooperation with India

By NIVEDITA MOOKERJI & HUMA SIDDIQUI

NEW DELHI, Nov 15, 2004 (The Financial Express) — Sudan is exploring tie-ups with India in the media and entertainment sector. Although a protocol is already in place, Sudan wants the agreement to be “active” and “effective”, according to a representative of the country’s public broadcasting company – Sudan Radio & TV Corp. A Sudanese delegation, which was in the capital recently, has also sought private sector investment in media, mainly TV broadcasting and radio.

A high-level delegation from Sudan Radio & TV Corp had met information and broadcasting minister S Jaipal Reddy and officials of private TV and radio companies during the visit.

“There is an agreement between the two countries on media and broadcasting. The agreemnt is valid but needs to be active and effective. We discussed this issue with the I&B minister and leaders of the broadcasting systems,” said a delegation member Mohamed Hashim. An official in the I&B ministry confirmed the meeting. The current pact focuses on aspects like exchange of programmes and experts, training and joint production.

According to Mr Hashim, among other things, “we are keen on seeking private sector co-operation in attracting investments for the media segment”. He added that talks were held with representatives of private companies for the same. In addition to holding talks with private sector TV and radio companies, the Sudanese delegation also explored possibilites with pubcaster Prasar Bharati. Significantly, Sudan’s investment system does not discriminate between foreigners and nationals.

Sudan offers opportunities in oil, energy, infrastructure, mining, civil avaiation, education, communications and information technology sectors. Media and entertainment could be yet another area to look at.

Two years ago, India and Sudan had signed various agreements on trade, economic, cultural and technological fields.