Opening of Chinese-built road welcomed in Ethiopia

ADDIS ABABA－Ethiopia on Monday inaugurated a major Chinese-built road project in the capital Addis Ababa.

The Alexander Pushkin Square-Gotera Interchange Road Project, which is a 3.8-kilometer road that incorporates three segments and construction of a two-lane 320-meter tunnel, was contracted and built by China First Highway Engineering Co.

Adanech Abiebie, mayor of Addis Ababa city, said during the inauguration that the project is a manifestation of Ethiopia's commitment and dedication to undertake vital development projects in a short period of time.

"This road project, in addition to setting a good example of an excellent road project execution for the city and our country, will also tremendously improve the traffic flow in this highly congested part of the city," Abiebie said.

"We would like to appreciate the Chinese people and government for this magnificent project, both in terms of financing and executing the project."

She further emphasized that the newly inaugurated road project will not only alleviate traffic flow, but also add aesthetic to the area.

The project's timely completion, which was commenced with a groundbreaking event back in October 2019, was said to be another milestone that serves as an example for similar large scale development projects in the East African country.

Shen Qinmin, charge d'affaires and minister counselor of the Chinese embassy in Ethiopia, said the project is a symbol of cooperation and friendship between China and Ethiopia.

Shen said China and Ethiopia are all-weather brothers.

The two countries have adopted development strategies that are highly compatible, and engaged in fruitful cooperation that sets the pace for China-Africa cooperation in general, he said. "China as a developing country fully understands the needs and aspirations of the Ethiopian people and government."

"We know how important roads or infrastructures are for the true realization of national dreams and economic development as well," Shen said.

He affirmed that China continues to be Ethiopia's genuine and sincere development partner.

Xinhua