• Expresses readiness to enhance all-round relations
BY MENGESHA AMARE
ADDIS ABABA– Having realized the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) is meant to benefit all the stakeholders and integrate the region, South Sudan is anticipating the completion of the mega project to satisfy the energy demand, the country’s ambassador said.
Speaking to the Ethiopian Press Agency(EPA), South Sudanese Ambassador to Ethiopia James Pitia Morgan said the dam under construction by Ethiopia is laudable as it is meant to benefit all the stakeholders and integrate the region. GERD, in addition to being designed in a way that ensures the benefits of the lower riparian countries, has opened opportunities for the countries to work closely.
Ambassador Morgan further noted that in addition to the purchase of electricity, South Sudan is also desirous to work with Ethiopia to ensure infrastructure-driven economic integration for the benefit of the people and economies of the two countries. Ethiopia has been undertaking successful work in creating strong economic cooperation among East African countries in general and with South Sudan in particular.
“Ethiopia has also made a noteworthy contribution in the South Sudanese peace process owing to its firm belief that the peace and stability of South Sudan is part of the stability of Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa as a whole. Ethiopia always stands with South Sudan, and Prime Minister Abiy (PhD) is our big brother since he always helps us to resolve differences in a peaceful manner.”
About the people-to-people ties, he stressed that two countries share not only borders, but also communities. “The people of South Sudan have a firm believe that we and Ethiopians are one people living in two countries and we are brothers and sisters” Cognizant their fate is intertwined in the turbulent East Africa, the agreement signed in Addis Ababa in 2018 has been indispensable in bringing about peace to both countries.
Ethiopian high-level delegation headed Defense Minister Abraham Belay (PhD) Juba bestowed Prime Minister Abiy message to South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mardiet and it was a viable avenue for peace and firm cooperation, the ambassador elaborated.
“Our relationship is historical and we are now trekking to the second stage-development since Ethiopia has succeeded, praise to God, in generating electricity from GERD and South Sudan wishes to benefit out of this opportunity.”
The two governments are working to get Ethiopia and South Sudan connected as it is a very crucial step to bring about growth and prosperity in economic, social, cultural and political spheres thereby fostering regional integration.
The ambassador expressed gratitude to the people and government of Ethiopia for standing by the people of South Sudan and providing them with great support.
The Ethiopian Herald April 8/2022
