Ministry, AfDB explore areas of cooperation

Addis Ababa, February 16, 2021 (FBC) – Ethiopia’s Minister of Water, Irrigation and Energy, Dr Seleshi Bekele, has held discussion with Amos Kiprono Chepto, Executive Director of the African Development Bank (AfDB).

The two discussed about the development projects being implemented jointly by the government of Ethiopian and the bank, including the Mekelle water and other energy projects.

Dr Seleshi on the occasion said his Ministry is exerting all needed efforts to finalized AfDB funded projects as planned . However, the outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic has hindered the progress of the projects at the required speed, he added.

Regarding Mekelle water project, the Minister said the construction of the project will continue as peace and stability have been restored following the end of the law enforcement operation in the region.

The two also explored areas of cooperation between the Ministry and the bank, particularly in the energy sector.

Dr Seleshi also briefed the director about the progress of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) and the status of trilateral negotiation between Ethiopia, Sudan and Egypt.