Studies on GERD should be conducted away of 'labyrinth of politics'

Studies on the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) should be conducted away from the labyrinth of politics, affirmed Ethiopian Water and Electricity Minister Motuma Mekassa.

Delivering a speech during a celebration held to sign the technical studies contracts of the GERD in Khartoum, the minister underlined the need to focus on technical sides, adding that efforts should be exerted to attain development, combat poverty and technical integration between Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia. 

He further said that signing contracts with the two consultancy firms came after efforts exerted by the Tripartite National Committee of the GERD, which included experts and officials from Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia. 

He, meanwhile, said that the past two years witnessed prolonged discussions which included providing technical proposals and preparing the necessary documents before signing contracts. 

Ethiopia remains committed not to harm Egypt's Nile water share, he made it clear. 

He also underlined the importance of close cooperation between the three countries to finalize technical studies. 

He voiced hope that signing the technical studies contract will pave the way to strengthening ties between the three countries in order to attain economic entity.

Source: MENA