Ethiopia, South Sudan mull greater infrastructural ties

By Tapeng Michael Ohure

The Federal Republic of Ethiopia has revealed plans to initiate major infrastructural projects in collaboration with the government of the Republic of South Sudan. 

Ethiopian Ambassador, Nabil Mahdi told journalists in Juba on Wednesday that his country and South Sudan have strategic common interests in infrastructural development.

The move, he said was aimed at cementing closer economic and bilateral ties between the two sisterly nations.

Amb. Mahdi was speaking during an end of year party organized by the embassy and attended by journalists from different media houses in Juba.

.

“We have the purpose of realizing the already existing bilateral agreements for the full utilization by the people of the two nations. To this end, we are working very closely to integrate the two countries with roads and electricity,” the envoy said.

Mahdi lauded President Salva Kiir for initiating the peace talks between the Ethiopian Government and the Tigray People Liberation Forces region rebels.

“In this connection, we appreciate President Salva Kiir determination for initiating the mediations. President Kiir has previously shown his dedication for regional peace by successfully organizing the Sudanese peace talks here in Juba. Ethiopia is adhering to a peaceful solution,” he said.

He said his country is already on the path to peace following recent ceasefire on both sides of the conflict.

“As you may all know or follow, the situation in Ethiopia is moving in a positive trajectory. Our national security forces and joint allied forces led by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed have defeated the advancement of the TPLF forces,” Mahdi said.