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Gov't to
award Addis-Adama road project to China, without bid
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 ADDIS
ABEBA(February 29,2008) - A
Chinese company will construct the Addis-Nazareth expressway with
out having to compete in a bid, Minister of Works and Urban Development
Dr. Kassu Ilala, said on Thursday amid speculations over who will
be awarded the contract.
The minister made the remarks in a joint discussion with a high level
delegation from China led by the Chinese minister of construction
Wang Guangtao.
Kasu said the contract for the construction of the six-lane Express
Way- the first of its kind, and the first toll road to be built- would
automatically be granted to China with out having to compete in competitions.
"This project is a special offer to Chinese companies of choice
to come with the necessary credit facilities and get the project without
any international competition," the minister said
"I do sincerely believe that the project will be monumental to
the Chinese government and people if Chinese companies participate
as suggested," minister Kassu added.
Leaving the express-way project aside, Kassu invited Chinese companies
to engage in the manufacturing of construction materials in order
to meet the new challenges of rapid development throughout the country
in the construction industry
"We feel there is a big market for all types of construction
materials in the country," Dr. Kassu observed.
"Besides, with the smooth access to the neighboring countries
and beyond the chances of the market to be expanded further, as a
result of the Regional Economic Cooperation Agreements, is also high,"
he added.
The minister further noted Chinese companies can invest in equipment
leasing business with fully equipped modern workshops backed by warehouse
facilities for spare parts.
Dr. Kassu said Ethiopia has given infrastructure development a priority,
where 70 percent of the infrastructure construction projects in Ethiopia
are being carried out by the Chinese construction companies.
The visiting Chinese minister Wang Guangtao on his part said of his
country's strong conviction to further step up its ties with Ethiopia.
He appreciated the support the Ethiopian government is providing to
Chinese companies working in Ethiopia in the construction sector.
Guangtao expressed his government's desire to enhance the friendly
cooperation between the two sisterly countries.
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