China To Fund, Build Green Project In Ethiopia

Ethiopia has launched a China-backed riverside green development project on Tuesday. The East African nation aims to create a beautiful and healthy environment in the capital city. Ethiopia's Green Project Source : CGTN The Addis Ababa riverside development project in its entirety will include the development of 48 hectares of the central square, 51.3-km riverside which runs along the two biggest rivers of Addis Ababa. China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) has contracted to build the first part of the project, which is expected to be completed in mid-2020, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed affirmed his confidence in CCCC’s ability to deliver what is billed to be Ethiopia’s landmark project.   Riverside Green Project in Ethiopia Source : ezega.com Speaking at the project groundbreaking ceremony, Chinese ambassador to Ethiopia, Tan Jian, says the riverside green development project showcases the multifaceted Ethiopia-China ties. Tan was also keen to emphasize his government’s commitment to help Ethiopia develop, without pushing the east African country to acquire more debt. “I wish to highlight the financing from China for this project is grant, it’s not a commercial loan and will not increase your debt burden,” said Tan. Deputy General Manager of CCCC First Highway Engineering Group,  Liu Dongyuan, says once completed the Addis Ababa riverside green development project will give lots of benefits including environmental benefits. “The Addis Ababa riverside green project aided by the Chinese government is a new type of environmentally friendly grand project, which is also a people beneficial project”.

“It will improve the image of Addis Ababa, and will have close attention of the Ethiopian and Chinese government. We will work hard on this project with careful organization, 100 percent dedication and guarantee timely completion with high quality,” said Liu.