U.S. Ambassador optimistic about socio-economic reforms in Ethiopia

Addis Ababa, July 12(ENA)-- The outgoing U.S. Ambassador to Ethiopia, Tibor P. Nagy has expressed his optimism that the various reform programs and decentralization activities underway in Ethiopia would bring about a socio-economic transformation in the country.

Ambassador Nagy told a press conference held at his residence on Thursday that the scrupulous implementation of the civil service and judiciary reform programs as well as the enhancement of privatization and free market economy in the country would guarantee a rapid socio-economic progress.

The huge natural resources and tourism potentials as well as the low level of corruption in Ethiopia are promising assets that should be complemented with appropriate policy frameworks to realize a sustainable economic development, he said.

The Ambassador said the Ethio-U.S.A relations are in good shape with increased development and humanitarian assistance amounting to 155 million US Dollars for the periods 2001-2006.

Nagy has also commended the efforts exerted in holding fair and free elections as well as in helping the private press flourish, which he said are instrumental in enhancing the democratization process in the country.

The Ethiopian government need to strengthen its textile industries with a view to helping them benefit from the African Growth Opportunity Act (AGOA), he said.

The Ambassador has also taken the opportunity to thank the people and government of Ethiopia for their heart-felt condolences following the September 11 terrorist attacks on his country.

Ambassador Nagy described as successful his three-year ambassadorial tenure in Ethiopia, which would terminate by the end of this month.

(END)