Egyptian Delegation Describes Visit as Turning Point to Bolster Relations

Addis Ababa Feb 7 (ENA)--The visiting high-level Egyptian parliamentary delegation said their visit could serve as a turning point to bolster co-operations between Ethiopia and Egypt.

In a Press Conference they gave here on Thursday, delegation head Engineer Saad Hagras said further consolidating the relations between Egypt and Ethiopia would help benefit the people of the two countries.

"The visit has offered us the opportunity to understand and appreciate the realities on the ground, and gave us the impetus to work together for our common benefits," Engineer Hagras said.

It is high time for the two countries to look forward to improve their relations for the benefit of the peoples of the two countries.

"The meetings we hold with Ethiopian officials and the people we met have given us confidence to work as bridges between the people of the two countries," says one member of the delegation.

Water Resources Vice Minister Mesfin Tegene said the progress so far made was really positive, though there were certain issues that have to be discussed.

The projects, which have already been identified in the Nile Basin Initiative, could certainly be implemented, Mesfin said, adding that there were programs that can easily be implemented in short time.

Another member of the delegation expressed hope that Ethiopian officials and parliamentarians would pay similar visit to Egypt.

The chairman of the foreign relations committee in the Egyptian parliament suggested that Ethio-Egypt Friendship committee be established.

While here, the delegation has visited the Rock-hewn churches of Lalibela and the 'Tis-Isat' or the Blue Nile Falls in the Amhara State, and the ancient mosque of Nejashi in Wukro, Tigray State, as well as other areas in Gambella State.

end