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Construction of the multimillion 220-kilometer Ethiopia-South Sudan cross-border road takes shape. The two countries are set to commence construction following a $738-million financial agreement signed in May 2023. On Tuesday, South Sudan’s Transitional National Legislative Assembly ratified the Ethiopia-South Sudan financial agreement to build a cross-border highway, the Ethiopian Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement on Thursday. The ministry said the project aims to enhance connectivity and bolster economic ties between neighboring countries. Furthermore, the project underscores the growing cooperation between the two nations. It also ensures a mutually beneficial relationship between Ethiopia and South Sudan. According to the financial agreement, Ethiopia will cover the cost of the road project. The deal designates South Sudan as the borrower and Ethiopia as the financier. Moreover, the repayment involves crude oil from South Sudan to Ethiopia. The construction of the road project will start upon the final authorization by South Sudanese President Salva Kiir. The Significance of the Construction of the Ethiopia-South Sudan 220-km Cross-border Road The construction of the 220-km Ethiopia-South Sudan cross-border road may be highly significant. Firstly, the road on the South Sudanese side will connect Paloich, Maiwut, and Pagak to Ethiopia’s border areas. Furthermore, the road is expected to ensure seamless connectivity between the two countries upon completion. Ethiopia and South Sudan will also benefit from a fast transportation network that will ensure the transportation of goods. South Sudan is slowly stabilizing from the constant civil wars it has faced recently. The construction of the Ethiopia-South Sudan cross-border road is a profound testament to this ideal. Moreover, the road promises to provide revenue for both nations, increasing their current revenue earnings. The revenue obtained may be channeled to other development sections that better their residents’ social and economic lives. |
