From polethiopia@yahoo.com Fri Oct 1 08:15:29 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Fri, 1 Oct 2004 01:15:29 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041001081530.21069.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> September 30,2004 National coffee export rose to 109,895 tonnes: Ministry ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The national coffee export has been raised to 109,895 tonnes in the year 2002 from only 50,967 tonnes 14 years ago, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development said. Speaking at the inauguration workshop of quality coffee project, Belay Ejigu said yesterday coffee export has been increasing owing to the attention attached to the expansion and the quality of coffee production. Coffee accounts 40-60 per cent of the country's export, Belay said, adding the livelihood of some 15 million households depend of coffee directly or indirectly. The minister underscored the need to improve both the quantity and quality of exportable coffee to benefit from the highly competitive world coffee trade. He also said the farmer has a vital role toward improving the quality of coffee. Hence, improved extension work should enhance harvesting, drying and strong performances at the level of farmer's holdings. Around 75-80 per cent of coffee in Ethiopia is prepared in dry processing though wet processing is more advantageous on attaining high price, the state minister said. Opening the workshop, Director for International Development (CABI) Dennis Rangi said Africa, with more than 300 million people living in extreme poverty; represents only three per cent of global trade. Rangi said his organization would continue providing technical and financial support to the quality coffee project. The three-day sub regional workshop that discusses coffee quality and price as brought together close to 70 participants from the various African countries including Ethiopia. EU runs 1.8 bln. euros cooperation programmes by Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA - The European Union (EU) is currently engaged in multi-faceted cooperation programmes in Ethiopia allocating 1.8 billion euros primarily focusing on three main planks of the programme budgetary support, developing transport infrastructure and food security issues. In an exclusive interview with the Herald yesterday, Mr. David Limpan, EU Information, Press and Communication Head and Ambassador Timothy Clarke, Head of Delegation of the European Commission in Ethiopia, said that Ethiopia is the most important recipient of development, food and emergency aid. Ambassador Clarke said: "Historically, we have been involved in food security and infrastructure for many years here since 1975," adding that his job within the Commission is to deliver these resources-high quality, major impact, leading people's needs and fighting poverty. "Our main focus here is really an overall context about development cooperation, to try to fight poverty and turn poor people from the chronic situation where they are in. We are also engaging in a very serious dialogue with ministers and try to see how we can involve in these issues," he said. He further said: "Europe is and will remain a really major partner to Ethiopia and we want to deepen that partnership with a view to ensuring and providing cooperation assistance highly targeted and high quality," according to Ambassador Clarke, the EU also runs cooperation programmes through NGOs, the civil society and other stakeholders. The EU extends not only financial assistance but also gives political support in trade and private sector development, he said. "We are involved in one or another in every single element of the economy of Ethiopia," Ambassador Clarke said. Commenting on the trade and investment relations between the EU and Ethiopia, the Ambassador said: "We have already involved through our direct budgetary support programmes and the support to the private sector to try to encourage liberalization of the market in providing support to micro and small-scale enterprises. We are also interested in supporting Ethiopia's efforts through the Adoha trade negotiations to try to improve the position of Ethiopia. Food security covers different areas-emergency food aid, technical assistance at woreda and kebele levels. In the future, a safety nety programme which the government has been negotiating with all donors which EU and the World Bank are the two biggest. We had meeting yesterday to finalize an aid memoir for the programme which involves some 200 million euros annually to support upto 5 million individuals who are chronically malnourished," Ambassador Clarke said. He also said that government is in a very credible effort to make all attempts to ensure that the money allocated goes to the right channel. "We are also considering a new injection of up to 120 million euros into the safety net programme over several years. And we have reached the final stages with the government on how this money should be allocated," he indicated. He further noted that Ethiopia plays a pivotal role in the region to bring peace, and stability, to Somalia, Sudan and the neighbouring countries and said: "We are very encouraged by many of the steps taken by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and his colleagues in trying to promote peace, stability, security and conflict resolutions mechanisms." Mr. Lipman, on his part said: "We have decided to bring to Addis all the press and information officers of the European Commissions' delegations in Anglophone, Francophone Africa as well as Portuguese speaking African countries. Basically, we have got simple messages! Who are we? What is Europe? What is the European Union? The 25 countries?" "We have to explain very simply to people what we are going to help. For instance, in Africa, it is largely development assistance programmes." According to Mr. Lipman, the European Union is the largest donor for development assistance in the world. Some 50 per cent of the world development assistance is given by the EU of which 20 per cent is managed by the Commission and its delegations. So there are very simple messages. Lots of things that we are doing but people don't know and we have to talk about who we want to target the media and the decision-makers among others, he said. National Bank adds security feature on 100, 50 birr notes New notes to be in circulation as of today by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - The National Bank of Ethiopia yesterday announced that additional security feature has been added on the 100 and 50 birr notes to guard against the ever-increasing counterfeit bills. Bank Vice-Governor Alemseged Assefa told journalists that the new notes, which would be incirculation beginning today bear holographic lead with primer on the front sides of the notes. Alemseged said that elements embodied in the security feature are Arabian numeral of the value of the note, Geez numeral of the note in side the circulars mesh-type artistic design, Amharic emblem of the bank, full number of the bank in capital letters and finger print type and circular anti-copier background in place of the previous "void" features. The vice-governor also said that the added security features on the banknotes are believed to help discourage forged bills and forgery. Asked why the Bank added security features only on the 100 and 50 birr notes, Alemseged said that most of the counterfeit bills so far were these. According to him, the bank preferred the new security feature considering the experience of other countries and the cost for replacing it. The substitution of the notes would take one year to give enough time for the public, he added. "The public at large is expected to substitute all the 100 and 50 birr notes with a year. This does not mean that they should come to the bank for replacement," he said. According to him, the substitution would be materialized through the routine transaction and the bank would play a significant role injecting the new notes. October 1, 2004 Over 209 mln. birr projects, programmes designed to enable Africa to benefit from AGOA ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Leather and Leather Products Institute (LLPI) of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) says it has designed and produced nine projects and programmes at a cost of 209 million birr to enable the African leather industry to benefit form the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Director of the Ethiopian Leather and Leather Products Institute, Dr. Geremew Debele told a relevant seminar yesterday that stimulating and strengthening the capacity of the leather industry could enable to take advantage of AGOA. Dr. Geremew said strengthening the capacity of the East and Central African countries could enable to participate more effectively in the multilateral trade system. It could also help develop and implement private sector business support strategies for increasing trade under the AGOA. Governmental institutions and private investors engaged in the leather and leather products processing and export industries are in attendance at the two-day seminar. Sweden, nine NGOs sign cooperation agreements ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Embassy of Sweden signed yesterday cooperation agreements with nine NGOs on support amounting to around 145,000,000 birr for the development of the NGO sector over a three-year period. Representatives of CRDA, Pathfinder International, Pact Ethiopia, Sustainable Land Use Forum, Consortium of Reproductive Health Associations, Network of Ethiopia Women's Associations, Save the Children Denmark, Jerusalem Children Community Development Organization and Initiative Africa signed the agreement with counselor for Development Cooperation at the Embassy Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg. The support is in line with the Ethiopian Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) that Sweden has firmly supported, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia, Hakan Akesson said on the occasion. He said Sweden has increased its support to Ethiopia since last year as it has trust that Ethiopia is capable of combating poverty and bring about all rounded development. Vibrant civil societies are important towards strengthening the government's commitment to fight poverty in all directions as they play crucial role in promoting people's participation and ensuring public awareness, the ambassador said. Thus, he said, Sweden, for the first time, has given such large-scale strategic support to civil society organizations in Ethiopia. "We want to strengthen the capacity of the civil society to contribute to achieving the goals of the Ethiopian poverty reduction strategy," Lofstrom-Berg said. The Swedish country strategy for development cooperation with Ethiopia 2003-2007 has identified democracy and human rights, women's rights and advocacy against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child rights, HIV/AIDS and environmental issues as five areas of cooperation with NGOs in Ethiopia. The Government of Sweden selected the NGOs after making a thorough assessment with regard to their capacity and strength, among others, programme officer for development cooperation with the embassy, Adeye Befekadu said. As the most urgent area, HIV/AIDS gets the priority and highest allocation followed by democracy and human rights, and women's and child rights, she said. Some 24,000,000 birr per year of the total budget planned for the civil society support has specifically been allocated for the fight against HIV/AIDS over the 2004/05-2006/07. UEDP, MEDHIN merge by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The United Ethiopian Democratic Party (UEDP) and the Ethiopian Medhin Democratic Party (MEDHIN) have merged forming the "UEDP-MEDHIN PARTY." The merger was announced at a ceremony held at Sheraton Addis yesterday where the merger document agreement was signed by Chairman of the Central Council of MEDHIN, Dr. Moges Gebre-Mariam and President of UEDP, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu. Representatives of the two parties indicated on the occasion that joining their membership and all their resources is of paramount importance to fully and effectively participate in the overall democratization process. Executive of the Bipartisan Committee, Kifle Tigneh, told the gathering called to witness the merger that a federal government composed of self administrative regional governments as one of the main pillars of the party political programme. Accordingly, he said, the criteria for the federal arrangement shall include considerations of historical and cultural affiliation, language, geography, population distribution and conduciveness to good governance and development. In addition, economically, the Party's policies are based on the principle of "free market economy" and shall be designed mainly to bolster private sector participation, he said. On the occasion, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu was named President while Dr. Hailu Araya, Col. Goshu Wolde, and Ato Lidetu Ayalew Senior vice President, Vice-President and Secretary General respectively. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.1,2004 =============================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail - You care about security. So do we. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia@yahoo.com Tue Oct 5 10:45:29 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue, 5 Oct 2004 03:45:29 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041005104529.8656.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 2, 2004 Ethio-German business partnership said growing Bilateral relations centenary to be celebrated by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - German Ambassador Strachwitz, Couness Dr. Helga said yesterday that business partnership between Ethiopia and her country gathered momentum after the signing of the bilateral agreement on the encouragement and reciprocal protection of investment following Chancellor Gerhard Schroder's visit on 19th January 2004. At press conference called to brief on the draft programme of the centennial of Ethio-German relations, the Ambassdor said that two German companies were so far engaged in the horticulture industry - one with nine million euros and another giant company which decided just recently to invest 35 million euros. The Ambassador said that other German companies are showing growing interest to invest in this country, which, she described as 'a promising start'. According to her, the German market for Ethiopian coffee still remains to be open and Germany continues to be the major purchaser - 35 percent of the country's coffee export. She also said that the German market is showing interest in Ethiopian wild coffee. So far, Germany had spent 1.2 billion euros on bilateral cooperation programmes in Ethiopia, she said. In the last two years and next year, some 70 million euros would be spent on development programmes especially vocational training and capacity building, she indicated. The Ambassador also announced the centenary of Ethio-German relations would be celebrated with various events. Conferences, exhibitions, and symphony concerts are some of the events planned to be staged both in Ethiopia and Germany. Senior officials' visit at presidential and PM level as well as parliamentarians is also part of the event. The Ambassador indicated that the opening of the new building of the German Cultural Institute and the Gebre-Kristos Desta Centre would be part of the event. "Since 1988/89, 35 of Gebre-Kristos' paintings most of them belonging to his family have been stored in the depots of the Staatliches Museum Fuer Voelkerkunde in Munich, In his last will and testament he instructed that his 'German' paintings should be returned to his native soil as soon as political stability was restored and respect for human rights guaranteed much as Picasso's Guernica eventually came home to Spain," she said. All parties concerned have agreed that the time has now come to fulfill his last wish, she added. Olympic Committee President dies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Assefa Mamo, who was the President of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee (EOC), passed away yesterday, the Committee announced. In a statement sent to ENA, EOC announced the death of Assefa, who had deep-rooted love for sports and was striving, for the expansion of sports in the country. The statement said the departed had been planning and executing various activities with a view to strengthening the Ethiopian Olympic Committee. It is saddening to sports fraternity that the late Assefa passed away at the time when he was active here and abroad to construct the Ethiopian Olympic Centre, the Committee said. Executive committee members and the sports families express their heartfelt condolences over the death of the respected sports leader, the statement said. The late Assefa was married and survived by a daughter and two sons, it said. According to the statement, the funeral of the late Assefa Mamo will be conducted today in Adi Abun near Adowa town of Tigray State. He was born in 1949 E.C.. Meanwhile, Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) expressed deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to EOC executive staff and the bereaved family over the passing away of Assefa Mamo. In a message sent to EOC, ANOCA President Ambassador Alpha Ibrahim Diallo said the death of the respected sports leader was a big loss not only to EOC but also to the African Olympic and Sports Movement. Providing accurate information to public ensures active participation in national election: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The upcoming national election will be one of the major activities of the year, the Ministry of Information, said in its weekly statement issued yesterday. The successful activity of such magnitude begins with creating a favourable condition for a fair and free election, the ministry noted. Therefore, the contending political parties are expected to provide the public the necessary information on the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of their programmes, what they have accomplished so far, their vision and direction in the future, the statement added. In regard to this, the debate between the political parties on the role of civil society and good governance organized by a Public Policy Forum of the Inter-Africa Group was held at ECA Conference Hall, on Sep. 26, 2004, the ministry underlined. Infact, the forum was characterized by tolerance the statement said, adding that it is important to note that such for a are venues through which political parties present their views and plans to the electorate. October 3, 2004 UNMEE to reduce troops soon ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) announced Friday that it would soon reduce its 3,600 strong peacekeeping force. UNMEE's Spokesperson Gail Bindley-Taylor Sainte told AFP that the reduction was made due to the departure of 500 Kenyan soldiers. The exact date of the departure is not yet known, he added. The UN Security Council extended on September 14 UNMEE's mandate until March next year, which, according to him called for a reduction in its size with a view to reducing its annual budget of about 200 million USD. Blair to arrive here Tuesday ADDIS ABABA (ENA/EH) - British Prime Minister, Tony Blair is scheduled to arrive in Addis Ababa, Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Commission on Africa scheduled to take place from 7-8 Oct. 2004, Associated Press (AP) reported. The 51-year-old Prime Minister established the Commission on Africa on February 28,2004 to take a renewed look at the challenges Africa faces and to generate increased support for the G8 Africa Action Plan. The first meeting of the Commission took place in London on 4 May 2004. The commissioners, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi then agreed on their work plan. Since the commissioners and members of the secretariat have been consulting widely with a wide range of stakeholders-including academia, parliamentarians, civil society, the development community and Diaspora groups. The commissioners will bring their ideas to Addis Ababa and work on them as a group. Their work in this second meeting will be the next step towards their final report and recommendations for action, to be published in spring 2005. Blair returned to Downing Street after a successful treatment to correct an irregular heartbeat at a hospital in west London on Friday, Xinhua reported quoting Sky News. According to the live television reports from the scene, Blair looked relaxed and smiled as he climbed out of his chauffeur-driven Jaguar and greeted the press. The Hammersmith Hospital said in a statement that the chance of his atria flutter returning was "very low". Blair was treated for "an irregular heartbeat due to atrial flutter (using) a planned procedure called radio frequency catheter ablation," said the hospital. "The procedure was successful in eliminating the atrial flutter. We consider the risk of refureence of the problem to be very low," it said. Blair first exhibited symptoms of an irregular heartbeat in October last year. The symptoms also reoccurred in August. He became the Prime Minister of Britain in 1997. ECA Executive Secretary urges journalists to fight against HIV/AIDS ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, K.Y. Amoako, called upon African journalists here Friday to actively participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS and focus on other major African issues. Responding to Questions posed by the journalists at the conclusion of a workshop on HIV/AIDS reporting, the Executive Secretary said a study conducted in 28 African countries by ECA shows that the role of African media is developing. "The good news is that in these countries, the role of the media, the emergence of private newspapers, the conduct in which news are reported is now making progress," he said. But, Amoako added that there are lots of things "to grapple with in terms of the role of the media in general." He said the media have to improve their performances in: "fairness issues, code of ethics, quality of reporting and the ability to see key issues and bring them to the attention of the people." The Executive Secretary said Africa is trying to rid itself of corruption and maladministration. So, he urged the journalists to make improvements in the dissemination of information. The Economic Commission for Africa and the Reuters Foundation organized the workshop, attended by 17 journalists drawn from Africa, Asia and Latin America. October 5, 2004 Houses commence 5th year tenure President says laws in the pipeline vital to enhance development, democratization endeavours by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis said the various proclamations expected to be enacted by the House of Peoples' Representatives this Ethiopian year would be instrumental in enhancing the ongoing development and democratization efforts in the country. Opening the joint session of the 5th year tenure of the Houses of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation yesterday, President Girma said the laws awaiting the approval of the Lower House would go along way in building execution capacity as well as promoting transparency and accountability in government institutions. Draft proclamations including the rural land administration and use; forest development, conservation and use' export meat licensing and organic agriculture system would have substantial contributions to the effective implementation of the rural development policy and to increasing the country's export earnings, the President said. The revised finance administration proclamation submitted to the House would enable to properly and effectively utilize public funds, he said adding that the proclamation would serve as a legal ground for other activities to be undertaken under the public expenditure reform subprogramme of the Civil Service Reform Programme. As regards boosting state revenues, President Girma said the amended proclamations of income tax and federal tax appeal council, among others, would help expedite the tax administration system thereby supporting the government's efforts to cover its recurrent and capital budget from local sources. The President also mentioned a number of legal frameworks in the pipeline in the areas of industrial and urban development. He said the proposal to re-establish the National Urban Planning Institute and the Design and Construction Supervisory Authority was part of these endeavours. The intended amendment of the Water Development Fund would help improve access to clean water, the President said, and expressed his conviction that the would-be established watershed development authority would come as a vital force in the efforts underway to ensure food self-sufficiency. President Girma also said that the draft press law, which, he said, had been extensively reviewed by local and international stakeholders, was expected to be approved by the House this year. The law would be critical inpromoting freedom of expression, which is enshrined, in the supreme law of the land, he added. He said a proclamation determining ways of entering into international agreements was also expected to be endorsed by the House in the stated period. The proclamation, he added, would help enhance Ethiopia's bilateral and multilateral relations and enable it to secure more development assistance. The revised proclamation of the licensing and registration of federal courts' lawyers, the proclamation for the expansion of youth sporting grounds as well as the documents registration proclamation and the advertisement proclamation and the advertisement proclamation were also among the laws expected to be enacted in the 1997 E.C., he said. The President has also stressed the need for making the legislative process more transparent through the active participation of the public, which, he said, would contribute considerably to intensifying the fight against poverty and backwardness. President Girma has also called upon the public to maximize their contribution in sustaining the encouraging results achieved in the areas of realizing rapid development and good governance as well as containing the spread of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The opening joint session of the two Houses has unanimously approved the minutes of the 4th year joint opening and first sessions. Addis set to make Johannesburg partnership fruitful, exemplary: Arkebe ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Addis Ababa City Government Mayor, Arkebe Equbay said that the City Government is committed to the success of Johannesburg Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAO) Programme. Arkebe said that his government is committed to make the Johannesburg and Addis Ababa partnership a fruitful and exemplary programme. Arkebe made the remark here while receiving a South African delegation led by Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo. Unemployment and limited access to decent shelter and other services were the two major challenges of the city, the mayor said, adding the city government has launched an integrated housing development programme to curb these problems. According to the Mayor, the housing development programme aims at constructing thousands of low-cost houses, creating employment opportunities and creation of an efficient and strong construction industry. The city has gained significant achievements in community participation and devolution of power to the kebele level, the lowest tier of government, he said. The city government in collaboration with the local communities has also been striving to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS, the mayor said. Arkebe said Addis Ababa would learn a lot from Johannesburg with regard to urban management, urban governance, and urban development through JAAP programme. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Mayor Masondo said the JAAP programme aims at forging cooperation between the two sisterly cities mainly on sustainable growth and development, empowerment of women, and experience sharing. "For instance", Masondo said, "Addis Ababa can learn a lot about Geographic Information System (GIS) from Johannesburg." He also said that the two sisterly cities could cement mutual cooperation to mitigate common problems like poverty, unemployment and rapid urbanization. Manager of the city of Johannesburg, Pascal Moloi said on his part the JAAP programme includes cooperation, among others, on strategic planning and management, quality service delivery, land and housing, finance and economic development as well as HIV/AIDS intervention activities. Addis Ababa City Manager Tesfa-Michael Nahusenay reiterated on the occasion the multifaceted development schemes of the city government with a view to upgrading the city. The 20-member delegation, which is here on four-day official visit, would have a series of discussions with senior government officials and also visit various development projects in the city. Addis Ababa and Johannesburg entered into partnership agreement in 2003. ==================================== pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2004 =========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Wed Oct 6 14:00:55 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed, 6 Oct 2004 07:00:55 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041006140055.33630.qmail@web53306.mail.yahoo.com> October 6, 2004 Meles, German Parliamentary delegation discuss cooperation ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday held talks with members of the Economic and Development Cooperation Committee with the German Parliament. Meles told the German Parliamentary delegation led by Walter Riester that Ethiopia desires to see its cooperation with Germany to focus mainly on the area of technical and vocational training. Meles said the Ethio-German all-rounded cooperation has now been taken to a new height. He said the Government of Germany has greatly been assisting in the activities underway in Ethiopia to speed up sustainable development. Ethiopia is eager to share the enormous experiences of Germany in the fields of technical and skill training, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Meles as saying. Meles said Ethiopia would greatly benefit from technical and vocational training cooperation with Germany. After talks with Meles, Riester told journalists that the discussions held with the Prime Minister focused on ways of strengthening cooperation in the field of technical and vocational training. The visit by the German delegation aims mainly at looking into possible ways of further enhancing the cooperation between the two countries. Members of the delegation are scheduled to visit the activities of the Menschen fur Menschen in Harar today. Joint session passes resolutions on census, interest income tax House urges Oromia, Somali states to make successful plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA)- The House of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation have passed resolutions on issued pertinent to the Commission on Census and Interest Income Tax levying, collection and ownership. The two House passed the resolutions here yesterday during their joint session at the beginning of their 5th year term. The Houses endorsed the amended article to hold national census every ten years, and according to the results the House of the Federation shall decide the designation of constituencies according to the draft to be submitted by the National Electoral Board. However, the period for census may be prolonged in the event of problems beyond control, which the two Houses should prove in their joint meeting. According to the resolution, the Commission was expected to conduct a national census in 1997 E.C. in line with the Constitution's Article 103/5. However, as the schedule coincided with the upcoming national elections, the census is rescheduled for 1999 E.C. as there is a budgetary limitation to undertake both in a year. The two Houses, with no objection and six abstentions, endorsed the amendment. The two Houses also agreed that the Federal Government continue to be the body responsible for interest income tax levying, collection and ownership. Meanwhile, the joint session of the House of Peoples' Representatives and the Federation urged the Oromia and Somali states yesterday to make successful the plebiscite due to be held to determine the future status of the localities along the common borders of the two states. Members of the two Houses said the measures so far taken by the state and the Federal Governments to seek a peaceful solution to the problems along the borders of the two states were satisfactory. The peoples of the two states have expressed their desire to bring about sustainable economic development and facilitate ways for the establishment of good governance in their respective localities, Speaker of the House of the Federation Dr. Mulatu Teshome said. He said the plebiscite was believed to be instrumental in establishing durable peace along the common borders. He said it was entirely up to the people living along the common borders to determine their status by casting their ballots in a free and democratic manner. In another development, Speaker of the House of the Federation said yesterday that the House would be actively engaged in implementing the development policies and strategies designed to reduce poverty and bring about sustainable economic development. Dr. Mulatu Teshome said the House in its final term of office would also be involved in the establishment of democratic institutions and good governance. He said the House of the Federation is expected to pass various constitutional issues during its regular and special sessions this year. The House also decided in a unanimous vote that the people and housing census to be held in 1999 E.C. MPs say penal code improved in favour of women's children's rights ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Two members of the House of People's Representatives said that the improved penal code of the country has been prepared in the manner that upholds the rights of women and children. At a panel discussion held on the improved penal code and reproductive health rights jointly organized by Walta Information Centre (WIC) and Ipass International here yesterday, Chairman of the House's Legal Affairs Standing Committee, Asmelash Wolde-Sellassie said that the code ensures the rights of women and children as it has been improved in line with the constitution and international conventions that the country accepted. According to the Chairman, provisions that protect women and children from physical and psychological damages are included in the code. Provisions concerning abuse by family members, rape, circumcision, and abduction, which were not part of the previous penal code, are incorporated in the improved code, he said, adding that it also promulgates conditions of abortion. He said the code also punishes the trafficking of women and children as well as labour exploitation. Women's Affairs Standing Committee Chairperson, Genet Tadesse said, on her part that the government is taking steps in building the capacities of the judiciary besides providing legal framework for the rights of women and children. Participant said that through the improvement of the penal code has paramount importance in ensuring rights of women and children, attention should also be given to its implementation and the creation awareness among the rural people. Commission for Africa to meet here tomorrow ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Tony Blair's Commission for Africa is to meet tomorrow and Friday here in the Ethiopian capital, to discuss Africa's future. In their eyes, they feel the continent's main problems are regional conflicts, refugees, trade and corruption, according to a BBC news article posted on the Internet. The delegates plan to hear from Africans on these topics. President reaffirms gov't support to organization's humanitarian activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that the Ethiopian Government would provide the necessary support to the Lutheran Hour Ministries for its humanitarian activities in Ethiopia. During talks with Ministries' Interim Executive Director Donald Bennett, at the National Palace yesterday, the president said that the humanitarian activities contribute to the development endeavours in the country. "Your assisntace for the health sector would greatly contribute towards the efforts to improving health services," he said. The president also requested the Lutheran Hour Ministries to increase its assistance to Ethiopia. Briefing reporters following talks with the president, Bennett said that the Lutheran Hour Ministries have donated medical equipment to the Makalle, Axum and Humera hospitals. He said the Ministries have also donated over 18,000 packages of books, and magazines to Ethiopian school age children. Ministries African and Middle East Director Dr. Essayas Menkir said that the organization was established in Ethiopia 10 years back. According to him, the Ministries are engaged in the provision of humanitarian support to the needy and the health sector. The delegation was to leave for the US last night concluding its three-week visit here. Johannesburg Mayor stresses exploring more partnership areas Delegation visits dev't projects by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo, who is leading the South African delegation here on a three-day official visit, emphasized on the need for exploring more partnership areas to foster Johannesburg-Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAP) Programme. Following briefings the delegation received on Micro, Small-scale Enterprises (MSE) and visit to a model low-cost housing and neighborhood projects in different areas of the metropolis, the executive Mayor told the Herald that the two cities have a lot to learn from each other. "We have already have a sisterly agreement with Addis Ababa City Administration that sticks to address issues of poverty, economic development and cultural exchanges and specific attention is needed to ensure the transformation of this agreement into practice," Masondo said. After commending the progress made regarding cooperation, especially in relation to administration and information system, the Executive Mayor indicated urbanization and migration as the main problems of Addis Ababa which are in most cases similar to other cities, "Consolidating the good ideas shared would have a great importance in improving the quality of life of their residences," he added. Micro and Small Enterprises Development Manager with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Yohannes Solomon told the delegation that the City Administration is doing its level best to promoting this sector especially in construction, metal and woodwork, clothing, food processing and municipal activities. According to the manager, some 98,000 residents have benefited from the 44 million birr the City Administration provided in loan and aid last year. For this fiscal year, 250 million birr has already been allocated to benefit 150,000 people engaged in this sector, he said. After explaining the comparative advantage of the sector especially its labour intensive nature and the provision of products at an affordable prices, he indicated lack of capital, technological know-how and information as the main obstacles facing the enterprise. The delegates also visited the Bole/Gerji pilot low-cost housing project backed by the German Technical Cooperation, and 2.3 kms pavement roads and toilets constructed with community participation in Kebeles 01 and 19 of the Kirkos Sub-city at a cost of around 1.2 million birr. ======================== pol.Ethiopia Oct. 6, 2004 ================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Thu Oct 7 11:48:35 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Thu, 7 Oct 2004 04:48:35 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041007114835.53003.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> Tony Blair arrives here Blair says Commission for Africa is about concrete actions to address Africa's problems by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Minister Tony Blair said the purpose of the Commission for Africa was to deal with in a comprehensive manner the fundamental problems besetting the continent and take concrete actions in partnership with Africans to address the problems. "The Commission's work is not simply to enlarge our understanding of Africa's problems but to pave the way for meaningful actions that will help get the problems resolved," said Mr. Blair in a press conference he gave along with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi at the National Palace later yesterday. Prime Minister Blair said Africa's problems related to debt, aid, trade, governance and conflict resolution need to be dealt with through the active involvement of Africans themselves and should be acted upon in a joint venture. "The Commission for Africa is a partnership arrangement in which we need to do certain things and African countries need to do certain things. It has to be a partnership between equals, no longer a relationship of donor and recipient," he said. Blair said that the Commission would not duplicate existing initiatives like NEPAD, which, he said, also promotes partnership. The Commission for Africa should support the NEPAD process by making sure that the developed world fulfils its commitments, he added. Prime Minister Meles on his part said that the establishment of the Commission would help the NEPAD process moves forward. "If I were to advise him [Blair] about how to most effectively support NEPAD, I would ask him to establish the Commission for Africa that he has already formed," Meles said. Prime Minister Blair reaffirmed his commitment to put Africa high on the agenda by next year when his country takes over the presidencies of both the European Union and the G8. "We have high hopes, and I believe that these hopes can be fulfilled, he added. Asked about the implementation process of the action plan expected to be produced by the Commission, Blair said he would take the document to the G8 Summit for endorsement. The African Union would also look into the proposal and forward its views, he added. "What I am concerned about here is not just coming up with such proposals but making sure that I am there all the way through its implementation," said Mr. Blair who personally took the initiative to establish the Commission. Prior to the press conference, Meles and Blair exchanged views on the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Britain as well as on other regional issues. Prime Minister Tony Blair arrived here later yesterday to attend the second meeting of Commission for Africa to be opened today. Prime Minister Meles and other senior government officials welcomed Blair upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Similarly, Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa, who is also one of the Commissioners, arrived here yesterday to attend the meeting. Meles and other officials welcomed President Mkapa. Meles calls for fairer trade to have fighting chance ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has called for fairer trade terms for Ethiopian in 'Doha trade round'. Meles told the BBC in an interview Tuesday that progress on the Doha round of trade negotiations would be uppermost in his mind. "Because in the long run, we can only trade our way out of poverty and the rules of the game are stacked against us. And we would like to see a fairer trading environment so that we can have a fighting chance. Asked when dependence on food aid would change, Meles said, "We are beginning to change that and we have a plan to completely overcome that problem within a period of three to five years. We have carried out one year of implementation of that programme and the performance has been quite good. We have had double digit growth of our economy last year. We expect similar growth this coming year. And if we could sustain that for two or three more years, we should be out of the woods." Meles said: "In the case of food aid, we are asking our partners not to give the farmers free food, but to make sure that people who can work for it, do work for it. And the food aid is used to ensure that these people do not come back to seek food aid at a latter stage." Asked if, in the interest of peace, it would not be better to agree with the ruling of the Boundary Commission, Meles said: "If this giving of land were to be a guarantee for peace, perhaps, but my argument is that if we are going to have completely unworkable boundary between Ethiopia and Eritrea, and I would divide a single house between two countries. I would suggest that such a boundary is a recipe for war." Some people are talking about war again this winter? Meles was asked, and answered, "If there is, it is not going to be started by Ethiopia. Ethiopia will never start another war with Eritrea. That is for sure." British Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday began a four-day visit to Africa to underline the developing world's concerns to find lasting solutions to the continent's problems especially on trade, aid and debt. After meeting officials in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, he would pray a central role in the British sponsored Commission for Africa, which is meeting in Ethiopia, the BBC said. House decides to hold plebiscite along Oromia, Somali common borders soon ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation decided to hold the plebiscite aimed at determining the status of the 463 localities along the common borders of the Oromia and Somali states soon. The House passed the decision during its session yesterday after holding talks jointly and separately with chief administrators of the two states. The chief administrations of the two states have reached an agreement to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. Previously, it was agreed to hold the plebiscite in 448 localities, according to the Speaker of the House of the Federation. He, however, said questions were forwarded by the states to include 15 localities in the plebiscite, adding that the chief administrators of the two states have agreed to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. The House passed the decision to include the 15 localities in the plebiscite after a thorough discussion with a majority vote. Of the 83 members of the House, three were against the motion. The House also decided the National Electoral Board would present the result for approval and the House would hold an extraordinary meeting. The House also decided the Speaker monitor the plebiscite process and presents a report back to the House on questions that may be raised by the people. Premier confers with Chadian Minister ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopia and Chad should work to consolidate their cooperation in the economy, training, transport and transfer of knowledge areas for the mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said yesterday. During talks held with the Chadian Minister of Public Works and Transportation Adoum Younousmi, the Prime Minister said it was the interest of Ethiopia to strengthen its economic relations with other African countries as well. Ethiopian has strong ties with many countries through the South-South Cooperation, he said adding that his country was keen to work with African countries in the sharing of experiences, as the problems affecting the livelihoods of the people in the continent are very much similar. Chad has shown interest to benefit from the training and maintenance section of the Ethiopian Airlines that has been flown to many African countries, according to an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the discussion. The Chadian Minister during his stay here was expected to visit various institutions in Ethiopia. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.7,2004 ============================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Fri Oct 8 13:21:47 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Fri, 8 Oct 2004 06:21:47 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041008132147.82118.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 8, 2004 We cannot afford to stand by and watch Africa get left behind, says Blair by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Ministry Tony Blair said the developed world could not afford to stand by and watch Africa face the risk of being left behind as what happens in Africa also affects the rest of the world. "Armed with the evidence from the Commission for Africa about what Africa needs and what has held back progress in the past, I want to turn international attention on Africa into international action to help the continent beat poverty and end conflict," said Blair in his 'Africa Speech' delivered at the opening here yesterday of the second meeting of the Commission for Africa. Most Africa countries are still as poor as they were 40 years ago, the Prime Minister said, adding that in some countries life expectancy, having improved for many years, has fallen back to what it was in the 1950s as a result of AIDS. "Next year will be a year of decision for Africa and the rest of the world," Mr. Blair said referring to the time when UK will hold the G8 and EU presidencies and the completion of the Commission's document. "The price for failure will be disaster for Africa. The prize for success will be an Africa standing proud in its own right the international community." Prime Minister Blair also said that poverty and instability in the continent leads to weak states, which can become havens for terrorists and other criminals. They could go undisturbed by weak governments while they plan their next attack, he added. "The international community must allow African countries the space to determine their own paths to development agreed amongst their own people," he said. "Countries should not be forced to sign up to policies which they do not believe will work because a donor thinks they will," he added. Blair also underscored the need for donors to coordinate their development assistance. He mentioned the encouraging results witnessed in Mozambique where 14 donors and the World Bank were supporting common policies set by the government and agreed with donors. The Prime Minister further indicated that the African Union was already showing how important it would be, particularly on governance and security issues. He also expressed support for the Peer Review Mechanism of NEPAD for which 23 sub-Saharan African countries have singed so far. HIV/AIDS has already been undoing much of the progress that has been made in combating poverty in Africa in the last 20 years, he said and added, "If we can help Africa to stop progressing undone by disease and conflict, Africa grows. But in order to achieve the MDGs in Africa by 2015, progress needs to be much faster." Prime Minister Blair also said that the UK has more than doubled its aid budget to Africa since 1997 and would reach the UN target of 0.7 per cent GDP contribution in 2013. Britain would increase aid directly for Africa to one billion Pound Sterling next year, he indicated. In a press conference Mr. Blair, Prime Minister Meles and two other commissioners gave later in the afternoon, they disclosed that they had dwelt at length the work done so far since the first meeting in the areas of governance, peace and security, aid, education and culture, among others. Meles described the commissioners' closed session meeting as very fruitful, which, he said, were helpful for future undertakings. "The discussion was held in a spirit of partnership rather than in the donor-recipient manner," he added. Prime Minister Blair also commended Ethiopia's development and democratization efforts saying that there was now much progress as compared to what it had been some years back. Asked about donors' response to Ethiopia's food security programme, Meles said the programme has based itself on the abundant labour and resources the country has not just donor assistance. "We believe that we can ensure food security with or without donors. Donor assistance is supplementary that would help expedite the overall progress of the programme," Meles said. The Commission for Africa will continue its session today in open debate sessions with the African civil society. The commissioners will have the opportunity to discuss their work directly with the civil society particularly with women and young Africans. Earlier on the day, Prime Minister Blair visited the Eyerusalem Children's and Community Development Organization at Debre Zeit town, about 42 km east of Addis, where he met people living with HIV/AIDS, orphans and visited other projects of the organization. Blair expressed his government's support to community based HIV/AIDS prevention activities. Meanwhile, Mayor of the Addis Ababa City Administration, Arkebe Equbai presented the city's key to Blair in ceremony held at AU Headquarters. Blair thanked for the gift and the hospitality he has been accorded with in his stay here. Prime Minister Tony Blair left for London later yesterday. Prime Minister Meles and other officials saw off Blair at Bole International Airport. House decides budgetary subsidy bill be submitted at its second regular session Afar, Somali states appeal for more seats ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation has decided that the draft on budgetary subsidy for states be submitted at its second regular session. It has endorsed its 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. The House decided the 1997 E.C. budgetary subsidy allocations to be enforced as per the amended formula of the 1996 E.C. as the new budgetary subsidy bill has not been enforced in line with the timetable. It said, failure to submit the new budgetary subsidy formula in the House's second session would create difficulty in budgetary subsidy allocations for the year 1998 E.C. The House concluded its first 1997 E.C. regular session after endorsing the 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. Meanwhile, representatives of the Afar and Somali states told the House of the Federation yesterday that their representations to the seat of the Federal Parliament are incommensurate with the total population of the two states. They said the National Electoral Board used the census of the 1976 E.C. as its benchmark for deciding the constituencies instead of the census of 1987 E.C. The decision of the board to use the census of 1976 was illegal and inconsistent with the provision stipulated in the Constitution, they said. The House decided the National Electoral Board to come up with sufficient and convincing answers for the questions raised by the two states to its next extraordinary session due to be held soon. Meles inaugurates international leather trade fair ADDIS ABABA becomes AFLI seat by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday inaugurated a leather and leather products trade fair that brought 269 exhibitors from Africa and other international companies at the UN/ECA compound. Meles visited several stalls where wet blue hides and skin, finished and semi-finished leather, raw materials, chemicals materials, components, accessories and finished products are being exhibited. The three-day trade fair targeted manufacturers of foot wear, leather goods, clothing, luggage, accessories and other items, machinery and chemical buyers and tanners as well as buyers of finished products. Some 89 from the host country, 125 African and 55 international exhibitors took part in the trade fair. Meanwhile, the African Federation of Leather Allied Industries (AFLAI) Board members decided that Addis be its seat. Ethiopian Tanners, Footwear and Leather Garments Manufacturers Association Board Chairman, Bedada Chali, told journalists that for Ethiopia is the number one skin producer in Africa, and its capital the headquarters of AU, UN/ECA and the regional offices of many UN agencies, AFLI Board members where convinced to reach at the decision. AFLI is the largest institution representing professionals in the African leather trade and allied industries established to facilitate technology and market, organize trade fairs and training sessions, optimize the setting up of joint ventures and partnership between companies, it was learnt. President meets Action Aid Chief Executive, UNDP Resident Coordinator ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis yesterday met Chief Executive of Action Aid International Ramesh Singh and Action Aid Goodwill Ambassador Emma Thompson. Thompson, a celebrated actress with Oscar-winning mid 1990s work in such films as Howards End and Sense and Sensibility, has been on a ten-day working visit to Ethiopia since 3 October 2004. President Girma briefed singh and Thompson about the activities the government has been implementing to change the lives of the people for the better in the political, economy and social sectors. Girma also briefed the visitors on the efforts the government has exerted over the past years in the expansion of infrastructure facilities, including electric power supply, according to an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting. President Girma commended the development interventions Action Aid has launched in ten states in Ethiopia, and called on the organization to strengthen its development support. Singh on the occasion assured the President of Action Aid's commitment to enhance its interventions in environmental protection, HIV/AIDS and food security. Thompson took the occasion to exchange views with the President about the measures that need to be taken to curb the impact that entailed coffee price deflation. Looking at the coffee price impact on households in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State was one of the purposes of Thompson's visit. Action Aid will move ahead by integrating its development interventions with gender-friendly activities Thompson said. Thompson is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on 9 October, according to a press release Action Aid had sent to ENA earlier. "…The visit is expected to give her (Emma Thompson) better understanding of the poverty situation and the level of response in the country as well as Action Aid Ethiopia's contribution towards addressing the issue. "This would help her to carry her observation for wider audiences," the release said. Meanwhile, President Girma has called on the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance its support for Ethiopia in the areas of poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS and environmental protection. President Girma made the call yesterday during an audience with UNDP Resident Coordinator Modibo Toure. Girma called on Toure to exert efforts toward the enhancement of UNDP's project in Ethiopia. The activities UNDP has been carrying out in the area of support in food security and employment generation should be intensified through consultations with beneficiary communities, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting quoted Girma as saying. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.8,2004 ======================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Thu Oct 14 09:17:51 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Thu, 14 Oct 2004 02:17:51 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041014091751.62773.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 12, 2004 4th African Development Forum opens Forum puts good governance at centre of development by Getachew Dibaba ADDIS ABABA - Good governance is a prerequisite and critical condition to put Africa on the path of development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. "Without good governance and the full respect of the democratic rights of citizens and all sectors of the society, it would be impossible to put in place conditions for durable peace and stability," Meles said. The Premier made the remark here yesterday at the opening of the 4th African Development Forum, which is being held at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) under the theme 'Governance for a Progressing Africa.' Political history of the continent clearly demonstrated that without durable peace and stability, there could be no development to speak of, Meles said. Executive Secretary of ECA, K.Y. Amoako, on his part reiterated that improvements in governance, human rights, peace and security are the necessary preconditions for sustainable human development in Africa. "Good governance promotes economic efficiency through equitable rules, by promoting fair and well-functioning markets. It curtails corruption and ensures the fair delivery of services," he said. The Executive Secretary also pointed out the crucial role of good governance in ensuring the participation of every sector of the society, coping with the challenges of HIV/AIDS and fostering investment. Amoako further stressed the need for the existence of highly active and progressive states to address multifarious problems of the continent. "As we seek effective ways to meet our challenges, we are consistently drawn back to one major focus: the need for capable state," he said. Expressing concern over Africa's fragile economic performance, which is well below what is required to meet the Millennium Development Goals, he underlined the paramount importance of placing good governance high on the agenda of development." There is a fear that the gains of recent years could slip back, and that further gains could be jeopardized," he said. Amoako also urged the African states to create an enabling environment for the active participation of the youth who make up half of Africa's unemployed while dealing with economic reform and national policies. The Executive Secretary also lauded the commitment of African countries to good governance for they show increasing interest to involve in the African Peer Review Mechanism, which is designed to review countries' performance on governance issue. "Twenty-three countries, representing 75 per cent of African population, have agreed to take part in the process," he indicated. Recalling NEPAD's Democracy and Governance Initiative, which is based on the premise that development is impossible in the absence of true democracy, respect for human rights, peace and good governance, he called for the commitment of African countries for the success through involving public and private sector stakeholders and ensuring transparency and accountability. Citing ECA's groundbreaking 28-country study on "measuring and Monitoring Progress towards Good Governance," the Executive Secretary on the occasion revealed that governance is getting better in the continent. "The situation across the continent is markedly different from just a decade ago. People believe that their political peace is being liberalized. They tell us that human rights and the rule of law are more widely respected and that the media and civil society are advancing. Women's participation in the political process has increased markedly in several countries," he said. He, however, pointed out that important areas need to be strengthened to further improve good governance. According to Amoako, parliamentary capacity, legal and judicial reforms, public sector management, credible and responsible media and the environment for the private sector, among others, are areas that show capacity deficits, even in countries making good progress. The five-day forum would examine and debate ways of improving governance in Africa today. Meanwhile, an exhibition displaying activities of about 50 local and international organizations was opened at the ECA yesterday. October 13, 2004 Global Fund makes 640 mln. USD support to Ethiopia ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Director-General of the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria said the Fund has made a 640 million USD support to Ethiopia. The Director-General, Professor Ricahrd Feachem made the remark while conferring with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi here yesterday. He also told journalists after the talks that the stated amount of money would be used for the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria in the next five years. He said Ethiopia is given priority among the 130 countries in the world in which the Global Fund has launched prevention activities against the stated diseases. The Director-General has also assured Meles that the Fund's assistance towards the prevention of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria would continue in the years ahead. Feachem said priority should be given to the effective and appropriate utilization of the stated amount of money for intended programmes. Meles assured Feachem on his part that the fund would be used immediately and appropriately for the programmes launched against HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria. UNAIDS Director-General Peter Piot who also held separate talks with Prime Minister Meles yesterday, said that the encouraging achievements gained in containing the spread of HIV/AIDS in Addis Ababa should further (Global P.7 President awarded UNAIDS' Medal ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis was awarded a UNAIDS' Medal for his outstanding contribution made in the fight against HIV/AIDS. UNAIDS Director General Peter Piot handed out the medal at a special ceremony held here yesterday at the UN Conference Centre (UNCC). Speaking on the occasion Piot expressed appreciation to the personal efforts of President Girma to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country. He also assured the President that UNAIDS' support to Ethiopia would further be strengthened in the years ahead to enable it contain the spread of HIV/AIDS. President Girma said on his part he would continue and strengthen his personal efforts toward the prevention and control of the pandemic. He also mentioned that the government has been implementing an HIV/AIDS intervention activity to prevent the spread of the infection. President Girma said HIV/AIDS was on corporated in the country's health extension package, which is being implemented at the grass roots level. Priority has been given to HIV/AIDS prevention activities by religious organizations and society at large, he said. World Bank Vice-President commends Ethiopia's strive to meeting MDGs by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President of the World Bank, Francois Bourguignon, said that Ethiopia is accomplishing commendable jobs to meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and remarkable achievements have been registered in different areas that put the country one in the top list in the developing countries. Briefing local journalists and foreign correspondents at Sheraton Addis yesterday, the chief economist indicated that given the right amount of aid from donor countries and good management of debt, the country for sure could meet the MDGs. Ethiopia is undertaking promising activities especially in the areas of governance, education, health, rural development and sanitation among others, he said, and went on to state that the World Bank would do its level best in the deepening of the scaling up process of the activities so as to accelerate the development and attain the MDG by the year 2015. He also underscored the need for improving the country's communication sector, banking system and tax administration to attract more investors and meet the needs of the society. Information obtained on the occasion also indicated that the Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) finalized in July 2002 aims at broad institution and structural reform to speed up the pace of growth, to distribute the gains to poor people and also accelerate progress towards meeting the MDGs. According to a development progress paper, Ethiopia has embarked on an impressive reform and development, though much more needs to be done in attaining the MDGs. Likewise, gross school enrollment increased from 33 per cent in 1990 to over 64 per cent in 20000, total adult literacy rose from 28 per cent in 1990 to 40 per cent in 2001 and total youth literacy increased from 42 per cent in 1990 to 56 per cent in 2001. In addition, GDP per capita grew an average 5.6 per decreased from 128 per 1000 in 1990 to 116 in 2002. The World Bank's Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for Ethiopia, covering FY 2003-05, which is based on the governments SDPRP, focuses on human development outcomes, enhancing pro-poor growth and reducing vulnerability, the paper added. October 14, 2004 Meles meets His Royal Osei II of Ashante Leaves for Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday met His Royal Majesty Opumfuo Osei II of Ashante Ghana. The Discussions between the two parties centered on ways of strengthening the South-South Cooperation. Prime Minister Meles and His Royal Majesty Osei recognized the amicable long standing relations between Ethiopia and Ghana. They said it would be beneficial for the two countries to enhance cooperation in the economy and cultural fields, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His Royal Majesty Osei is here to attend the Africa Development Forum IV (ADF IV). He presented a paper on traditional governance at the Forum. Meanwhile, a high level Ethiopian delegation led by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi left for Budapest, Hungary yesterday to attend the meeting of progressive governance. Upon departure at the Bole International Airport, senior government officials saw off the Prime Minister. The Budapest meeting was the continuation of that was held in London, England. Residents register for plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Office of the National Electoral Board said that voter registration for the plebiscite to determine the status of the disputed localities along the common borders of Oromia and Somali states is in progress. Office Deputy Head Teasfaye Megesha told ENA yesterday that people in the 641 localities, where the plebiscite would be held, have been registered in a remarkable turnout. He, however, said some kebele and woreda officials were not cooperative and even failed to provide leadership as expected. A joint committee for the purpose has enabled to address some of the problems identified in the process of voter registration, he said. ============================ Pol.ethiopia Oct.14,2004 ================= __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Fri Oct 15 12:30:31 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Fri, 15 Oct 2004 05:30:31 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041015123031.89443.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 15, 2004 President elect Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed, Somalis can count on support of Ethiopia: Meles ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The inauguration of Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed as President of Somalia heralds a new beginning of national reconciliation is Somalia and the end of Somalis statelessness, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. Reading out the message of Prime Minister Meles at the inauguration of the new President yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya, Foreign Minister Seyoum said the occasion was a major landmark and a turning point in the history of the people of the sub region. We have always known that durable peace and stability in the region had to wait the rebirth of the Somalia State, Meles said in his message. The countries of the region have managed at last to stand behind the people of Somalia in unison in full solidarity. Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed is a person who has proved to be formidable… He is a Somali patriot who has always stood for principles never flinching no matter how difficult the challenges, he said. He said, I am extremely proud to have had with this proud son of the people of Somalia an enduring friendship based on a clear understanding of the mutual interests of our peoples and that of the peoples of our sub region. He said, as the new government would begin everything from ground zero, the support of the international community is imperative. The support becomes indispensable not only in the interest of Somalia, it is also in the vital interest of the whole international community that Somalia is regenerated and the rule of law is restored in the country and that Somalia joins the community if nations with all state institutions put in place, he said. The Prime Minister said our friend President Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed and the people of Somalia can always count on Ethiopia to stand with them shoulder-to-shoulder as they proceed to lift the Somali State from the ashes. Meles also urged the United Nations, the African Union and the League of the Arab States and other organizations to do whatever is possible to ensure that the new government is installed in Mogadishu as speedily as possible. Progressive Governance meeting opens in Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance meeting in which several leaders from various countries in the world including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is attending opened yesterday evening in Balaton, Hungary. The two-day meeting, which is being held in closed session, is expected to deliberate on Europe's future progressive politics, among others. The meeting is also expected to deliberate on the challenges and aspirations of progressive politics with the aim of exchanging ideas, experiences, and best practices that will help in the development of progressive solutions towards the problems experienced worldwide. Hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyursany, the meeting is being attended by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, South African President Thabo Mbeki and leaders of several other countries. Some 150 leaders from around the world, policy makers and politicians are also in attendance at the meeting. State Minister says capital goods leasing is an alternative financial instrument by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA - State Minister of Trade and Industry said that international experience indicates that Capital Goods Leasing is used in many parts of the world as an alternative financial instrument to minimize problems in the sector, particularly to satisfying investment requirement. Opening a half-day International Finance Corporation (IFC) Seminar on Leasing in Ethiopia at Sheraton Addis yesterday, Tadesse Haile said that recognizing the significance of the industrial sector in general and the manufacturing sector in particular, the Government of Ethiopia has adopted an Industrial Development Strategy which considers the prime importance of the private sector as an engine of growth. The State Minister added that the government is exerting every possible effort to create favourable environment for the private sector in line with the strategy. He further indicated that the development of the sector in this country was facing various problems access to both short and long-term financing being one of the major constraints. According to him, the Government of Ethiopia promulgated Capital Goods Leasing Business Proclamation No. 130/1998 and the associated directives since 1997. Realizing the slow development of the leasing industry, his ministry development has initiated a study to look into the proclamation and directives. A press release obtained from IFC indicates that leasing, as a financial tool, can play a significant role in economic growth fostering advance in production and broadening spectrum in the financial market. It provides medium-term to long-term financing which is vital to investments, according to the release. The release also said that successful leasing promotion requires constructive partnerships among governmental local commercial institutions and international organizations. Officials of IFC said that the mission of the Corporation is to promote sustainable private sector investment in developing countries, helping to reduce poverty and improve peoples' lives. They also said IFC finances private sector investment in the developing world, mobilize capital in the international financial market, and provides technical assistance and advice to governments and businesses. The seminar was attended by the government, local financial institutions, the business community, insurance companies, consulting companies and business support institutions. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.15,2004 =========================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Express yourself with Y! Messenger! Free. Download now. http://messenger.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Tue Oct 19 09:04:27 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue, 19 Oct 2004 02:04:27 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041019090427.72436.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 16, 2004 Swedish Ambassador lauds Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme Diplomatic ties golden jubilee to be marked Oct. 19 by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson has commended Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme reaffirming his government's readiness to further increase its assistance. Briefing journalists in connection with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties at the embassy yesterday, the ambassador appreciated Ethiopia's commitment to combating poverty and ensure food security. "Last year, Ethiopia and Sweden signed a new development cooperation agreement where we our doubling are development where we our doubling are development cooperation to Ethiopia. We did it because we trust the Ethiopian Government and its ability to further open up the country politically and economically. We did it because we know that the Ethiopian Government takes its task of combating poverty very seriously and has very good poverty reduction programme that we base our cooperation on," the ambassador said. As to the ambassador, Ethiopia also has a very dynamic civil society that would really bring about a real difference for the poor with the support of the international community. His government, according to the ambassador is working with Ethiopia in the areas of education, health, rural development, humanitarian assistance, forestry, human rights and democracy, private sector development, justice sector reform as well as research cooperation among others. Marking the Golden Jubilee of the diplomatic ties between the two countries, a seminar on education, a photo exhibition as well as buffet-reception with Daniel Lemma (Ethiopian born Swedish) and the Cherry Bombs, a Swedish jazz band would take place in Addis Ababa on October 19,2004. The first ever Swedish development cooperation agreement with any country in the world was signed with Ethiopia in 1954 aimed at establishing the Building College in Addis Ababa. Sweden has allocated 500 million birr for this year of which 120 million would go for direct budgetary support, he said. Ambassador further indicated that Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia over the past 50 years is estimated to reach 13 billion birr. UN Humanitarian Envoy to arrive here today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - UN Humanitarian Envoy Martti Ahtisaari will make a three-day visit to Ethiopia to review progress in breaking the cycle of hunger and poverty, AFP said quoting the United Nations Thursday. It said the former Finnish president will be making his fourth trip to Ethiopia since his designation in June 2003 as the Special Envoy of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan concerned with the humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa. Ahtisaari, who will arrive today, will review the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia and measures taken by the government and relief agencies to break the cycle of hunger and poverty. He would meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, government officials, humanitarian agencies and international donors representatives. The number of people relying on emergency food assistance now stands at 7.8 million, and almost 1.2 million tonnes of emergency food and non-food assistance valued at 85 million dollars is needed overall for Ethiopia this year, it said. A report of the Joint Evaluation of the Response to the 2002-2003 Emergency in Ethiopia is to be released to next Monday, according to AFP. African countries urged to institute, strengthen affirmative action policies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Participants of the 7th African Regional Conference on Women said African countries should institute and strengthen affirmative action policies and programmes aimed at increasing women's and girl's access and retention in order to address gender imbalances in education and training. They said the affirmative action may include scholarship at all levels for female students, distance and non-formal education and literacy programmes for women, innovative and aggressive strategies to redress the under representation of women and girls in the sciences. In a statement they issued at the conclusion of the meeting here Thursday, the participants said in order to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other targets on reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, governments in collaboration with NGOs and the private sector should provide accessible sexual and reproductive health care services and education for women and girls. The statement said given the importance of communication and speed, with which information and communication technology (ICT) evolves, it is important that the region adopt and implement gender-aware media policies. It also said African governments should adopt gender-responsive policies, programmes, strategies and measures on environment. Success of creating conducive investment climate depends on ensuring good governance: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Ministry of Information said in its weekly statement issued yesterday, that the activities of countries to harness their natural resources to the benefit of their citizens are expanding and acquiring momentum. Most countries are engaged in fierce competition to maximize their share from the global investment flow, the statement said. Accordingly, it is important for the nation to exert maximum effort to attract investors, who engage in various activities to develop the untapped resources in our country, the statement added. According to the statement, it is true that tremendous measures have been taken to promote investment since the adoption of the free market economic system in the country. The provision of Civil Service Reform Programme (CSRP), the designation of plots of land for investment activities in urban and rural areas, are the major steps taken to ensure fundamental changes in the country, the statement underlined. As a result, such an effort was confirmed by the World Investment Report of the United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) launched in Addis Ababa on Sep.4 2004, which has rated our country as one of the countries that have created ideal investment environments in the world, the statement said. October 17, 2004 Progressive Governance Summit concludes issuing joint communiqué ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance Summit attended by 14 heads of state and government in Budapest, Hungary, including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi concluded its two-day session Friday issuing a joint communiqué. The participants of the summit declared in their communiqué to promote openness, tolerance, mutual respect, inclusion and solidarity. They stated their resolve to advance progressive polices within the global and regional institutions and pledged to honour the commitments made in the institutions and to encourage others to do the same. An open and fair-rules based on global economic and trade system can assist everyone to benefit from globalization, supported by regional and international cooperation, they said. "We encourage international financial institutions to become even more responsive to the imperatives of poverty reduction, social stability and to ease the burden of heavily indebted poor countries and economies in the transition." They also agreed to examine the reasons behind the failure to meet some of the development goals set and reinforce those of the Monterrey Consensus to promote national and global economic system based on the principles of justice, equity, democracy, participation, transparency, accountability and inclusion. The participants of the summit welcomed the recent initiatives of the United Nations to fight hunger and poverty. With regard to globalization, the participants said they pledged to ensure all their citizens to have access to decent and stable employment by providing an economic environment that supports job creations. "Progressive governments understand that the fruits of growth must generate the wealth necessary for investment in human capital, social mobility and cohesion." They said it was important for the progressives to empower the individual to take more control of their own lives-fighting poverty, expanding opportunity, social mobility, personal responsibility and developing power closer to citizens. A comprehensive approach including bordering development aid facilitating access to markets, creating an enabling environment for companies and promoting good governance is indispensable for sustainable development and would strengthen international cohesion as well as social development. Progressive governments condemn terrorism in all its forms and support international efforts to combat its existence and spread, they said. They said multiple threats including international terrorism, regional conflicts, and proliferations of weapons of mass destructions, environmental degradation and the pandemics like HIV/AIDS impact on all the countries. The participants of the summit also looked into the situation of Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Middle East, Haiti, Sudan and the Korean peninsula. At the invitation of the South African President, the leaders agreed to hold the next progressive governance summit in that country. Meanwhile, at the end of the summit Prime Minister Meles Zenawi told a press conference that developed countries should deliver the pledges they made to support the development endeavours of the poor countries. He said the support of the international community was vital for the developing countries to reduce poverty and seeped up development endeavours. The Prime Minister said developing countries should take concrete steps that could facilitate ways for development, debt concellation, trade and attract the flow of foreign investment, among others. During his stay in Hungary, Prime Minister Meles met and held discussions with his Hungarian counterpart on ways of consolidating the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The delegation led by the Prime Minister Meles returned home late Friday night. Meles, Wolfensohn visit farmers' lentil production activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and World Bank President James Wolfensohn yesterday visited the activities of the farmers engaged in lentil production in Gimbichu Woreda of East Shoa Zone, Oromia State. Briefing the high profile visitors, representatives of the farmers said lentil production, which they have engaged in through the extension programme using improved technologies, is already paying off. They said the yield per hectare has been going up since they have begun employing frost-resistant seeds and receiving support from the development agents (DAs) the government has deployed in support of their lentil production activities. Our lentil crops used to shrivel frequently by frost, they said recalling the hard times they endured through before the launching of the extension programme. Accordingly, the yield per hectare now grows to 20 quintals from 15 or less previously, they indicated. They told Meles and Wolfensohn that their lives have steadily been improving with the farmers replacing thatched huts with more comfortable houses. According to the farmers, through their lentil production activities, many others have been getting access to employments at the increasing number of lentil processing mills. They said they would not have reached this level without the support of the government. During the visit, discussion was held with Gimbichu cabinet members about the 1996 E.C. performance and future plans. One of the good security strategies of the Ethiopian Government has been providing support to household farmers to engage in the production of marketable agricultural items, including horticultural products, apiary, and dairy products, among others. October 19, 2004 Ethiopian Embassy working to attract investment, trade ADDIS ABABA (ENA) Ethiopian Ambassador to five European countries said her embassy has attached priority attention to the enhancement of trade and investment cooperation with Eastern European countries. Ambassador Halima Mohammed, who is accredited as Ethiopian Ambassador to Austria, Hungary, Romania, Slovak and Bulgaria told journalists in Budapest last week that her embassy, based in Vienna, will pay attention to attracting investors from Eastern European countries to Ethiopia. The embassy earlier had been preoccupied with the task of forging cooperation with UN agencies and other international organizations based in Vienna, she said. The chief activity of the embassy now is attracting trade and investment to Ethiopia and finding markets to Ethiopia's exports to Europe, she said. In its endeavours to promote the image of Ethiopia and to attract investors, the embassy would join hands with Ethiopians residing in Eastern Europe, she indicated. She said it was through the efforts of the Ethiopians there that MATADOR, a Slovak Company, has been able to forge joint venture with Addis Tyre Factory. She said investors of Eastern European countries have shown interest to invest in Ethiopia, adding Austrian companies have already entered Ethiopia with joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts. Activities have been launched to enable investors from Eastern Europe to engage in coffee and leather and leather product investments, among others, according to Ambassador Halima. Meanwhile, she said, the number of tourists who are coming to Ethiopia from Eastern European countries was steadily increasing owing to promotional activities. She said more than 20 tourism operators from Austria have entered Ethiopia. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.19,2004 ======================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Wed Oct 20 11:11:18 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed, 20 Oct 2004 04:11:18 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041020111118.90246.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 20, 2004 Ethiopia, China sign 10.5 mln. birr grant accord as 6th Joint Commission Session concludes President confers with Chinese Deputy Minister of Trade by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopia and China yesterday signed a 10.5 million birr grant agreement and expressed their commitment to further consolidate their trade relation and bilateral cooperation while reviewing projects being implemented here by the latter. The agreement, singed by State Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr, Mulu Ketsela, and Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce Liao Xiaoqi, will be used to finance project costs that would be jointly identified by the two sides. Opening the sixth Ethio-China Joint Commission Session earlier in the day, Dr. Mulu indicated that over the last decade, the trade balance had been entirely in favour of China while Ethiopian export items were limited to agricultural products. "The current bilateral trade relation is encouraging, since a gradual progress in raising the quantity of Ethiopia's export products to China is being made; albeit at a very limited market share for Ethiopia's export." Dr. Mulu said. She also indicated that within the last two years several improvements have been made to make the investment climate more enabling. The number of sectors where investment was restricted to Ethiopians only has now been reduced and the time to set up and register a business has been decreased from months to hours thanks to the reform measures the Investment Commission effected, Dr. Mulu said. Moreover, she said an investment fund for exporters has been set up and the government is making land available for investors with the establishment of industrial zones. The Joint Commission session, among others, discussed the performances of China-implemented projects. The Chinese Vice minister and his delegation indicated during the meeting that they want to further intensify their relation especially in vocational training. They also expressed their strong desire to engage in Ethiopia's telecommunications sector where a competent company would apply for the bidding. The Chinese delegation also said that Chinese companies would further work very hard to increase their efficiency and competence to win high confidence from the Ethiopian side. Different exchange of notes to conduct studies in the areas of road construction, industry and mineral resources; and an agreed minutes which stipulate the mutual understanding reached during the session were also signed. Meanwhile, President Girma Wolde-Giorgis has called on Chinese investors to engage in agriculture and textile investment sectors here ENA, reported. During talks here yesterday with the visiting Chinese Deputy Trade Minister Liao Xiaoqi, President Girma said such cooperation would further strengthen the economic cooperation between Ethiopia and China. Girma said there are a wide range of opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade and investment sectors. The relations between Ethiopia and China have been taken to a new height, he said, adding the agreements signed between the two countries same day will further cement the cooperation between the two countries. He called on Chinese investors to establish agricultural, textile and industrial investments in Ethiopia on their own or in joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts, which he said would be greatly beneficial to both countries. He also called on the Government of China to enhance its support in the area of human resource development through training. Xiaoqi on his part said he has held constructive discussions with officials of the Ethiopian Government on issues pertinent to the enhancement of cooperation between the two countries. A Foreign Ministry Official who attended the meeting quoted Xiaoqi as saying that the visit made him well aware of the availability of wide opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade, investment and other sectors of the economy. Evaluation report commends effort launched to overcome 2002-03 drought ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The efforts exerted by the government and various humanitarian organizations to save the lives of 13 million people exposed to drought during the 2002/2003 were productive, according to a report. Evaluation of the response to the 2002-03 emergency report launched in the presence of the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan special envoy for humanitarian crisis on the Horn of Africa Martti Ahtisaary and Commissioner Simon Mechale said it had been possible to provide over 1.5 million metric tons of relief to the affected people. The government, donor organizations, the UN specialized agencies, NGOs and international community have worked in close cooperation and consolations to help victims of the natural disaster. It said donors have also provided in donation non-food assistance to the people during the reported period. The Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission (DPPC) had used private transport enterprises to transport the relief from the port of Djibouti. The commission also established over 1,200 distribution centres to provide the much needed relief assistance to the needy. Some 46 therapeutic feeding centres were also established in the areas seriously affected by the drought to provide relief assistance to the over 20,000 children, according to the report. The report also suggested that it was imperative to keep in reserve a huge quantity of grain and seek ways to consolidate the financial capacity of the DDPC with a view to overcoming future disasters. EAL needs to pursue reform: CEO ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines has indicated the need for the national carrier to pursue reform with a view to maintaining its competitiveness in the international aviation industry. Girma Wake made the remark here at Sheraton Addis yesterday at a meeting held to assess a study on Ethiopian's future operations. Ethiopian is exerting efforts to introduce new working systems geared toward enhancing its competitiveness in the aviation industry. He said competition in the aviation industry has come to be tougher with the rising fuel cost in the international market. Ethiopian, thus, need to pursue reforms that would enable it remains competitive in the aviation industry, which is becoming increasingly tougher. He said the 2003/2004 profit the Airlines made would not augur profitability now that the road to competitiveness is getting rough. EAL board members, including Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin attended the meeting. Ethiopian during 2003/2004 netted 31.7 million US dollar from air transport services. NEB offers training for coordinators of upcoming elections ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The National Electoral Board (NEB) offered a day-long training here yesterday to coordinators of the 2005 national and state elections. Candidates will begin electioneering beginning November, NEB Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha said. Voting will be conducted on 15 May 2005. NEB has made the necessary preparations in the process of elections, h said, adding that endorsement signature forms and other information will be made handy for private and party candidates. According to the timetable made public by the Board, candidates will be receiving endorsement signature forms at next-door education offices from 30 October 2004 to 6 January 2005. The coordinators will deliver the endorsement signature forms and other materials to the education offices in their respective constituencies, he indicated. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.20,2004 ========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Fri Oct 22 11:53:42 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Fri, 22 Oct 2004 04:53:42 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041022115342.17666.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> October 21, 2004 Results achieved in enhancing women's educational participation said promising by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Education, Minister says Genet Zewdie that results achieved both in enhancing women's participation in education and to increasing their enrolment were promising. Opening the 4th Forum for Women's Education at the conference hall of the ministry yesterday, the minister indicated that in addition to the 4.4 per cent gross enrolment increase above the set target for the 1997 academic year, the gap between the two sexes in primary education has declined to 18 per cent. Accordingly the gross enrolment for both sexes has now reached 68.4 per cent surpassing the planned 64 per cent by the end of this academic year. Though the primary education is characterized by overage students problem, the net enrolment for the age groups 7-15 has reached 57 per cent out of which 51.8 per cent are women, she said. A five-year special curriculum has been designed to address the problem involving four million overage children throughout the country, the minister added. According to W/ro Genet, there is a plan to increase women's primary education enrolment to 80 per cent within five years, which would create a fertile ground mainly in transforming the agricultural sector and empowering and making them ready for short-term trainings. The enrolment of women has also reached 48 per cent in vocational and skill training centres and 29 per cent in higher institutions. Lauding the role of such forms, the minister also stressed on the need for the active participation of pertinent bodies and the society at large in addressing socio-economic problems hindering women's participation. The forum would assess the five year (1997-2002 E.C.) strategic plan of all states aimed at enhancing women's educational participation and also design a national implementation strategy for the same period. Over 300 women representing state women's affair, higher institutions, teachers and other women's associations are in attendance at the three-day forum. AU military chiefs discuss boosting Sudan force ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - African military officers discussed the details of a plan to expand an African Union peacekeeping force in Sudan's Darfur region Monday, hoping to provide a more effective mission to monitor cease-fire breaches. A working paper circulated by AU officials at a meeting in the Ethiopian capital acknowledged that the current mission of 150 cease-fire monitors and 300 AU troops was too small to provide effective cover of a region the size of France. The paper, obtained by Reuters, proposed boosting the force by around 3,300 staff, comprised of 2,341 military personnel, 815 civilian police, 132 other civilian support staff and 32 staff to be stationed at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. "The threat of raids and looting of villages remain significant. The number of civilians leaving their villages for the safety of IDP (Internally displaced people) camps continues to grow," the document said. "The population's lack of trust in the police and other government organizations is seen as a major obstacle to overcome the process of returning to normality," it said. The United Nations estimates 70,000 people have died of malnutrition and disease in Darfur, a figure the government disputes. The total does not include deaths due to violence because U.N. officials say reliable figures do not exist. The military chiefs gathered ahead of a scheduled meeting of AU's Peace and Security Council on October 20 to decide on the expanded duties and numbers of the Darfur force. AU Chairman Olusegun Obasanjo, the Nigerian President, said last week that the AU will begin deploying 4,000 more troops to Darfur, bringing the total to 4,500 by the end of November. It was not immediately clear why the number of extra troops differed from the figure suggested in the working paper. The document said an annual budget of up to $221 million would be required for the enhanced force to be deployed in Darfur, but did not say where the money would come from. An African diplomat working closely with the AU said the money could come out of the European Union's $312 million peace support fund, which it has placed under the AU's authority. Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties golder jubilee marked by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The golden jubillee of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties was marked Tuesday October 19, 2004 with various events organized at Sheraton Addis. Addressing a seminar that discussed cooperation between the two countries, State Minister of Finance and Economic Development Dr. Mulu Ketsela commended the various Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia. "Especially in the last two frameworks of our cooperation, we were able to enhance our bilateral consultations and witnessed noticeable change in the scope of Swedish involvement and skill assistance. It is in this period that we received over 1 billion birr for the period of five years," she said. Minister of Education Genet Zewdie, on her part appreciated Sweden's important role in the history of Ethiopia's modern education. "Nearly half of our primary schools have been built through Swedish assistance and the schools built in different parts of the country are indeed the monument of Swedish commitment to the people of Ethiopia." W/ro Genet also indicated that it was not only in terms of school construction that the education of this country benefited from Sweden. "We have received enormous support worth of millions of dollars in the provision of educational materials," the minister added. She also took the opportunity to call upon the Swedish Government to further strengthen its excellent cooperation and establish a strong partnership on mutual respect and support especially in the areas of capacity building in which education and training are its main component. Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson said that his government's active partnership with to the Ethiopian Government emanates mainly from its commitment to establish good governance, combating poverty and backwardness and bring about rapid economic growth. As part of the programme, a photographic exhibition and a musical show was presented by the Cherry Bombs - a Swedish band including Ethiopian born Swedish Daniel Lemma. The Swedish community in Addis Ababa, government officials including President Girma Wolde-Giorgis, members of the diplomatic corps and other invited guests attended the programme. October 22, 2004 House endorses appointment of judges, bilateral accords ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed the appointment of four judges and two bilateral trade agreements. In its second Fifth Year Regular Session, the House endorsed the appointment of a judge for Federal High Court and three others for First Federal Instance Courts as presented by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. The House also endorsed by acclamation the Ethio-Algeria and the Ethio-Libya Bilateral Trade Agreements, submitted by the Trade and Industry Standing Committee. The agreements are expected to enhance Ethiopia's trade ties with the two countries. The House has also referred the proclamation to ratify the agreement signed on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment between Ethiopia and Iran to the same Committee. The agreement would have a significant importance in bringing into foreign investment technology, administrative know-how and inflow of capital to Ethiopia. The House has also referred the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction Ratification to the Foreign, Defence and Security Affairs Standing Committee for further scrutiny. OPDP resolves to raise women's political representation during upcoming elections ADAMA (ENA) - The Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO) has announced activities to raise women candidacy for the upcoming national elections by 30 to 50 per cent. In line with the resolution passed during OPDO's 5th organizational conference held recently, public consultations have now begun to nominate women election contestants with a view to boosting the limited political representation of women, OPDO Office Head Aberra Hailu told ENA. OPDP has launched activities to nominate competent women candidates in its bid to raising women representation at the parliament from 13 to 54 and that at the state council from 70 to 200, he said. OPDO members have been on the move to enable women to benefit fully from their right to elect and be elected as well as to nominate women contenders who meet criteria, he indicated. Raising the political representation of women is vital in view of their responsibilities in the society and their greater roles in the efforts geared towards ensuring sustainable development, he said. He expressed the commitment of OPDO to realize the resolution. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.22,2004 =================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Mon Oct 25 12:49:21 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Mon, 25 Oct 2004 05:49:21 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041025124921.75120.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 23, 2004 Somali President arrives here ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed arrived here yesterday on a working visit. Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin and other senior government officials accorded him a warm-welcome upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. While here, the Somali President will hold talks with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and other government officials on issues of current affairs in Somalia. President Abdullahi is also to hold talks with the Peace and Security Council of the African Union enhancing peace and security in Somalia. He is also to meet and hold talks with EU Secretary-General Javier Solana, who was also to arrive here last evening. Axum Obelisk to be transported home next December ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Efforts aimed at transporting the Axum Obelisk from Italy to Ethiopia until the coming December are well underway, Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Teshome Toga said. Ambassador Teshome told ENA Thursday that a study enabling to transport the Obelisk by aircraft has already been finalized. Tehsome, who is also Chairman of the National Committee for the Return of the Axum Obelisk, said Ethiopia on its part has accepted the study that would enable to transport the Obelisk by aeroplane. The study has confirmed that the Obelisk can be transported safely by "Antonov 124" aircraft from Italy to Ethiopia in three rounds, he said. Inviting companies who will compete in an auction to transport the Obelisk will be the next step, according to the Minister. The Obelisk has already been dismantled safely and packed, and was kept in an airport in Rome, Ambassador Teshome said. According to the study, Axum Airport has the capacity to accommodate the stated aircraft while work on the construction of a road linking the airport with the place where the Obelisk will be re-erected, is in progress. The return of the Obelisk to country of its origin will have a paramount importance in enhancing the longstanding friendly relations and bilateral cooperation between Ethiopian and Italy, Ambassador Teshome said. Council refers bills to House ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Council of Ministers referred bills to the House of Peoples' Representatives with some amendments for approval after a thorough discussion. Office of the Cabinet Affairs Ministry told ENA yesterday that, the Council in its 117th session discussed the agreement signed and the ratification bill to secure loan from the Arab Bank for the African Economy Development for the provision of safe drinking water to the Kibre-Mengist town. The Council also passed a decision on the agreement singed with the International Development Association and ratification bill to obtain loan for the provision of safe drinking water and implementation of sanitation projects as well as for the government's capacity building sector. Accordingly, the Council checked that the loan agreements were consistent with the loan strategy of the country and decided to refer the bill to the House of Peoples' Representatives for approval. The ministers also looked into the amended bill on retired employees jointly organized by the ministries of Justice, Labour and Social Affairs and Trade and Industry as well as Social Security Authority after a direction was given by the Council. The amended bill has included new articles that could protect the benefits of employees. The Council referred the bill to the House of peoples' Representatives for approval. Gov't committed to strengthen, sustain educational reform: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Government of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia has issued an appropriate education policy and launched the educational and vocational training programme with the firm belief that execution capacity building is a key task in extricating the country from poverty and backwardness, the Ministry of Information said. According to the ministry's weekly statement issued yesterday, the task of capacity building requires vast and perpetual activities. As education and vocational training are instruments of building execution capacity, special focus and attention was given to the reform process, it said. In the last few years, various intensive activities were launched to address the issue of execution capacity building and mitigate problems in the educational and vocational training sector, the statement said. The statement further said that many schools were built in rural areas which benefited millions of children and efforts were exerted to improve the secondary and higher education sector. Citing the multifaceted activities underway to make educational institutions that produce competent and truly educated citizens capable of realizing all-round development, the statement said this achievement is assumed to be a result of the joint efforts of parents, the government and the public at large. The statement finally said the government is committed to strengthen and continue the joint effort in partnership with all stakeholders, particularly teachers and students to improve the quality of educational and the vocational training system. October 24, 2004 Meles reaffirms Ethiopia's continued support for Somalia Holds talks with Solana ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi says that Ethiopia would continue to extend support for Somalia until peace and security is ensured and permanent government is established. During talks with the newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, here yesterday, Meles said that his country is committed to strengthen peace and security in Somalia. Meles recalled that the people and government of Ethiopia have also been extending their support for Somalia from the beginning up to now to maintain peace and security in the Country. Out of its strong commitment to bring about peace and stability, Ethiopia has been exerting maximum efforts throughout the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring a lasting peace in Somalia that has helped form the transitional government in the country. Prime Minister Meles said that Ethiopia would do everything possible to ensure law and order in Somalia in the years ahead. He also expressed his conviction that country neighbouring Somalia and the international community would continue their support for the establishment of a permanent government in Somalia. President Abdullahi called for continued Ethiopian support to bring about lasting peace in his country. He also conveyed thanks to the people and government of Ethiopia as well as member countries of IGAD for their unwavering support towards ensuring peace in his country that led to the establishment of the transitional government. Sharif Hassen Shekh, Speaker of the Transitional Federal Parliament told journalists on his part that the Parliament was successfully formed through public participation thanks to the efforts launched by Ethiopia and other IGAD member countries. Sharif also thanked Ethiopia for providing hospitality to tens of thousands of Somali refugees at a very difficult time. He also called for Ethiopia's and AU's continued support for the efforts of the Somali Transitional Government. Asked about the transitional government's plan to include Somaliland within the present government, the Speaker said that efforts have already been launched to include it and through peaceful means. Speaking to journalists on his part, Special Ethiopian Envoy to the Somali National Reconciliation Conference, Ambassador Abdulazizi Ahmed, said that the people of Somalia were happy that the transitional government has been formed. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks here yesterday with European Union Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana on situations prevailing in the Horn of Africa. The talks between the two officials centered on the peace process in Somalia and humanitarian crisis in Darfur, according to a spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also deliberated extensively on the activities being done by the African Union to ensure law and order in Somalia. Meles and Solana have also discussed ways of the support the EU will extend to the peacekeeping force to be deployed by the African Union in Darfur, Sudan, the spokesperson said. They also held wide-ranging discussion on ways of EU's support to be given to the Transitional Government of Somalia to help it ensure peace in its country. Solana told journalists after the talks that he and Prime Minister Meles had constructive discussion on the efforts launched to maintain peace and security in Africa. Plebiscite determining fate of 463 kebeles to be held today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The plebiscite that will determine the fate of 463 kebeles bordering Somalia and Oromia states would be held today as scheduled, the National Electoral Board said. The people living in kebeles, where the registration of voters has been completed, would go to polls beginning 6:00 a.m until 6 p.m today, the Board told ENA yesterday. Election executives, observers and security personnel would be in polling stations beginning from 11:00 a.m, it said. The plebiscite will be held in secret ballots, according to the Board. Both states have territorial claims over the stated kebeles and the plebiscite is expected to resolve the problem. ================================ pol.ethiopia Oct.25,2004 ====================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia@yahoo.com Thu Oct 28 12:52:46 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Thu, 28 Oct 2004 05:52:46 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041028125246.48493.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 28, 2004 Extreme poverty in Nile Basin said linked to environmental resources mismanagement by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA- Vice Minister of Water Resource said that extreme poverty in Nile River Basin is closely lined to the mismanagement of the environmental resources on which the basin people depend for survival. Opening a three-day workshop "Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project" at the Ethiopian Management Institute yesterday, Ato Mesfin Tegene said that the Nile River is the longest river in the world, travelling over 6,700 kms that covers one tenth of Africa's total landmass. "It serves as home to world-class environment assesses an estimated 160 million people within the boundaries of the basin; while nearly twice that number - roughly 300 million - live within the ten countries that share or depend on Nile waters, many of them among the world's poorest,:" he added. The Vice Minister also said that to prepare an action plan geared towards concerted basin wide environmental interventions, Transboundary Environmental analysis (TEA) has been developed in May 2001 by Nile riparian states in cooperation with the UNDP and World Bank with a fund provided by the Global Environmental facility. The process was also backed by USAID. According to him, the TEA is intended as both a catalyst and valuable resources to the Nile riparian countries and their international partners as their historic political cooperation begins to be translated into effective measures aimed at sustainable economic development in the Nile Basin. He further indicated that as environmental education and awareness racing programme within the Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project, focus on creating awareness on the river Nile environmental threats, stimulating behavioral change at three levels - the general public, secondary schools and tertiary institutions. The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), formally launched in February 1999 by the Council of Ministers of Water Affairs of the Nile Basin countries (Nile-COM), is guided by a shared vision; "to achieve sustainable socio-economic development through the equitable utilization of, and benefit from, the common Nile Basin water resources." Some 65 senior professionals drawn from the Ministry, Oromia, Gambella, Benshangul-gumuz, Tigray and Amhara states and other pertinent governmental offices, representatives from international and local donor organizations re in attendance at the workshop. ICRC organizes discussion on alternatives to imprisonment ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in collaboration with Penal Reform International conducted a two-day discussion on the alternatives to imprisonment, which is known as community service. According to press release of ICRC sent to WIC yesterday, discussions were held on the community service that is a scheme under which judicial decisions require a light offender to perform unpaid work in the community with a view to making reparations for the offence one has committed. Is said the workshop at the Ghion Hotel was aimed at creating a forum where stakeholders discussed the advantages and disadvantages of community service in the Ethiopian context. On the occasion, Vice-Minister of Justice, Ali Suleman, said that the current Justice Reform Programme in Ethiopia is improving the legal system in general and the alternatives to prison punishment in particular by giving it primary attention. The commissioner General of Ugandan Prison, the Programme Co-ordinator for community Server in Kenya and an expert from Switzerland shared their respective countries experiences followed by panel discussions led by the head of Africa Programme from penal Reform International. Amhara Justice Bureau Head and the Deputy commissioner of the Federal Prisons presented papers on the importance of alternatives to imprisonment in the Ethiopian context and the problems to be encountered at the implementation stage. The workshop was opened by Marco Brudermann, head of ICRC delegation, and attended by representatives of the Federal Prison Commission, Ministry of Justice, Parliament, Institute of legal Studies, Ministry of Federal Affairs, Ministry of Capacity Building, federal courts as well as state justice bureaus, courts and prison administrations. Sudanese Parliament approves expansion of AU mission to Darfur ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - THE Sudanese national Assembly approved Tuesday the expansion of the African Union (AU) mission to its troubled western region of Darfur, Zihhua reported Tuesday. The lawmakers made the decision after listening to a statement delivered by Foreign Minister Mustafa Thaman Ismail on the issue, it said quoting the official Omdurman Radio report. Ismail told the parliament that this choice is the best among all proposals. "The AU mission would be assigned to a duty of monitoring the ceasefire breaches by either side, building confidence between the conflicting sides, monitoring aid flowing to the needy people in Darfur, providing good conditions to stop hostilities between all sides as well as creating chances for development, said Ismail. The AU, which is sponsoring peace talks between the Sudanese Government and the Darfur rebels, announced this week that it was set to boost the number of truce-monitoring troops in Darfur sevenfold to 3,320. Some 150 AU ceasefire monitors are in Darfur along with more than 300 troops to protect them, according to the Chinese news agency. The expanded missions will comprise over 3,000 persons who are expected to be deployed in camps and to monitor Sudanese police. =========================== pol.ethiopia Oct.28,2004 ============== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail Address AutoComplete - You start. We finish. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia@yahoo.com Fri Oct 29 12:40:13 2004 From: polethiopia@yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Fri, 29 Oct 2004 05:40:13 -0700 (PDT) Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041029124013.97413.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 29, 2004 House passes three bills Civil servants' amended Pension Proclamation goes into effect ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed agreements reached with the Governments of Libya and Iran and a bill amending Civil Servants Pension Proclamation. The House endorsed the bills unanimously during its 5th year 3rd regular session. Accordingly, the House endorsed the bill providing for the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Libya to cooperate in cultural, youth and sports. "This agreement is believed to promote the image of Ethiopia and to help strengthen the capacity building efforts underway," the Information and Cultural Affairs Standing Committee said in a recommendation. The other bill provides for investment promotion and protection agreement reached between Ethiopia and Iran. The Trade and Industry Affairs Standing Committee in a recommendation said that the agreement would be vital to enhance the cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the field of investment and the economy. Meanwhile, the House endorsed the amended bill providing for Civil Servant's Pension and decided that it go in to effect on October 28, 2004. The amended proclamation has a new Sub-article (3) which states: "A public servant who has completed at least 20 years of service and who has reached at least 45 years of age may receive retirement pension for life where the government office he has been working for ceases to exist or he is reduced from the workforce in connection with privatization or his contract of employment is terminated as a result of inefficiency by a decision of the Council of Ministers." Sub-article (2) of Article 17 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who has been receiving invalidity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." Yet another Sub-Article (2) of Article 30 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who is receiving incapacity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." EAL graduates 11 pilots by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Multi-National Aviation Training Centre of the Ethiopian AirLines (EAL) yesterday graduated 11 Ethiopian pilots who completed the commercial pilot course with Instrument and Multiengine Ratings. After handing out diplomats and awards to the class 36A of pilot's wing, Flight Operations Executive Officer Capt. Tesfaye Ambaye called upon the graduates to be active enough in applying what they learnt and keep learning in the course of their career. Pilot Training School Manager Col. Belay Assefa on his part said that the School was to embark on a new approach of handling the commercial pilot course different from that of the traditional way that was in use for the last 40 years as of November 1,2004. "We have developed a new integrated course syllabus structured for Private Piloting Licence (PPL), Commercial Piloting Licence (CPL), Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings (IR/ME) to be handled progressively instead of one complete CPL/IR/ME package," he said. According to the Manager, the School has also purchased two additional used C-172XPs aimed at building the capacity of the training fleet to meet the ever increasing training demand. The Manager also called upon the graduates to always commit themselves to work hard and remain abreast of the fast advancing technology. "Always make SAFETY your objective and open your mind to learn from your senior professionals," he advise the graduates. During the 24 months of their stay, the group has covered 1000:00 hours of class instruction 250:00 hours of practical flight training both on single and multiengine Trainer flight training aircrafts. The Outgoing class brings the total number of graduates to 728 out of which 437 are Ethiopians and 291 foreign graduates from over 33 African countries. EAL officials, parents of the graduates and other invited guests attended the graduation ceremony held at the Employees' Main Cafeteria. Sweden, UNDP sign pledge to support election ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Government of Sweden and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement in support of the Basket Fund sponsoring the Multi-Donor Assistance for the 2005 National Election in Ethiopia, UNDP said here yesterday. According to UNDP press release, the contribution of 10 million Swedish Kroner from Sweden should be seen in the context of pledges estimated at over 4.5 million US dollars from the Donor Sub-Group on elections, chaired by Sweden. The release said Austria, Canada, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Spain and Sweden, among others, are members of the Sub-Group. The overall objective of the Multi-Donor Trust Fund Project is to contribute to the development of a free, open and accountable political system of governance and the consolidation of democracy in Ethiopia through the organization and conduct of the fourth-coming national elections in May 2005. In fulfilling these objectives, the current project is designed to assist the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEB) with the conduct and overall management of the electoral process in cooperation with a range of national stakeholders. Counsellor with the Embassy of Sweden, Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg and Resident Representative of UNDP, Modibo Toure signed the agreement, according to the release. EC allocates 12.5 mln. euros to drought, disease victims in the Horn ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The European Commission (EC) has allocated 12.5 million euros in humanitarian aid to victims of drought and disease in the horn of Africa- Eritrea (1 million), Ethiopia (6.5 million), Kenya (3.85 million) and Somalia (1.15 million). Activities will include emergency health care in Somalia and Ethiopia, and emergency drought response in Eritrea, Ethiopia and Kenya. This EU support will provide a lifeline for thousands of pastoralists suffering from the effects of water shortage, the Commission's Humanitarian Aid office said on Wednesday. Funds will be channeled through the European Commission's Humanitarian Aid Directorate General (ECHO) which comes under the responsibility of Commissioner Poul Nielson. In Eritrea, receding ground water levels following successive years of drought are leading to pockets of acute need as water supplies fail. ECHO emergency assistance will secure essential water supplies, and supplementary nutritional assistance. An estimated 150,000 people, mainly women and children located in rural areas, are expected to benefit from these activities over the next twelve months. In Ethiopia, acute needs have arisen in the southeast due to drought; while in a number of regions malaria is reaching epidemic levels, notably in areas where populations have recently been resettled, it said ECHO will provide emergency water and nutritional assistance to drought affected areas. In addition, ECHO will provide emergency medical assistance including more effective medicines to address epidemic malaria. In total, up to one million people are estimated to benefit from this assistance over the next 12 months. In Kenya, much of the north of the country, and in particular the pastoralist populations there, are suffering from drought. An estimated 600,000 people will benefit from a range of activities financed by ECHO, including emergency water, health and veterinary assistance. In Somalia, as a result of over a decade of civil war, health indicators are amongst the worst in the world, and the most vulnerable people have little or no access to health care. ECHO's assistance will focus on providing access to primary and secondary health care through support to clinic and hospital facilities including vaccination, pediatric and maternity care. This decision will help an estimated 250,000 people, especially in the capital Mogadishu. ==================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.29,2004 ======================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 1 10:15:29 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041001081530.21069.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> September 30,2004 National coffee export rose to 109,895 tonnes: Ministry ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The national coffee export has been raised to 109,895 tonnes in the year 2002 from only 50,967 tonnes 14 years ago, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development said. Speaking at the inauguration workshop of quality coffee project, Belay Ejigu said yesterday coffee export has been increasing owing to the attention attached to the expansion and the quality of coffee production. Coffee accounts 40-60 per cent of the country's export, Belay said, adding the livelihood of some 15 million households depend of coffee directly or indirectly. The minister underscored the need to improve both the quantity and quality of exportable coffee to benefit from the highly competitive world coffee trade. He also said the farmer has a vital role toward improving the quality of coffee. Hence, improved extension work should enhance harvesting, drying and strong performances at the level of farmer's holdings. Around 75-80 per cent of coffee in Ethiopia is prepared in dry processing though wet processing is more advantageous on attaining high price, the state minister said. Opening the workshop, Director for International Development (CABI) Dennis Rangi said Africa, with more than 300 million people living in extreme poverty; represents only three per cent of global trade. Rangi said his organization would continue providing technical and financial support to the quality coffee project. The three-day sub regional workshop that discusses coffee quality and price as brought together close to 70 participants from the various African countries including Ethiopia. EU runs 1.8 bln. euros cooperation programmes by Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA - The European Union (EU) is currently engaged in multi-faceted cooperation programmes in Ethiopia allocating 1.8 billion euros primarily focusing on three main planks of the programme budgetary support, developing transport infrastructure and food security issues. In an exclusive interview with the Herald yesterday, Mr. David Limpan, EU Information, Press and Communication Head and Ambassador Timothy Clarke, Head of Delegation of the European Commission in Ethiopia, said that Ethiopia is the most important recipient of development, food and emergency aid. Ambassador Clarke said: "Historically, we have been involved in food security and infrastructure for many years here since 1975," adding that his job within the Commission is to deliver these resources-high quality, major impact, leading people's needs and fighting poverty. "Our main focus here is really an overall context about development cooperation, to try to fight poverty and turn poor people from the chronic situation where they are in. We are also engaging in a very serious dialogue with ministers and try to see how we can involve in these issues," he said. He further said: "Europe is and will remain a really major partner to Ethiopia and we want to deepen that partnership with a view to ensuring and providing cooperation assistance highly targeted and high quality," according to Ambassador Clarke, the EU also runs cooperation programmes through NGOs, the civil society and other stakeholders. The EU extends not only financial assistance but also gives political support in trade and private sector development, he said. "We are involved in one or another in every single element of the economy of Ethiopia," Ambassador Clarke said. Commenting on the trade and investment relations between the EU and Ethiopia, the Ambassador said: "We have already involved through our direct budgetary support programmes and the support to the private sector to try to encourage liberalization of the market in providing support to micro and small-scale enterprises. We are also interested in supporting Ethiopia's efforts through the Adoha trade negotiations to try to improve the position of Ethiopia. Food security covers different areas-emergency food aid, technical assistance at woreda and kebele levels. In the future, a safety nety programme which the government has been negotiating with all donors which EU and the World Bank are the two biggest. We had meeting yesterday to finalize an aid memoir for the programme which involves some 200 million euros annually to support upto 5 million individuals who are chronically malnourished," Ambassador Clarke said. He also said that government is in a very credible effort to make all attempts to ensure that the money allocated goes to the right channel. "We are also considering a new injection of up to 120 million euros into the safety net programme over several years. And we have reached the final stages with the government on how this money should be allocated," he indicated. He further noted that Ethiopia plays a pivotal role in the region to bring peace, and stability, to Somalia, Sudan and the neighbouring countries and said: "We are very encouraged by many of the steps taken by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and his colleagues in trying to promote peace, stability, security and conflict resolutions mechanisms." Mr. Lipman, on his part said: "We have decided to bring to Addis all the press and information officers of the European Commissions' delegations in Anglophone, Francophone Africa as well as Portuguese speaking African countries. Basically, we have got simple messages! Who are we? What is Europe? What is the European Union? The 25 countries?" "We have to explain very simply to people what we are going to help. For instance, in Africa, it is largely development assistance programmes." According to Mr. Lipman, the European Union is the largest donor for development assistance in the world. Some 50 per cent of the world development assistance is given by the EU of which 20 per cent is managed by the Commission and its delegations. So there are very simple messages. Lots of things that we are doing but people don't know and we have to talk about who we want to target the media and the decision-makers among others, he said. National Bank adds security feature on 100, 50 birr notes New notes to be in circulation as of today by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - The National Bank of Ethiopia yesterday announced that additional security feature has been added on the 100 and 50 birr notes to guard against the ever-increasing counterfeit bills. Bank Vice-Governor Alemseged Assefa told journalists that the new notes, which would be incirculation beginning today bear holographic lead with primer on the front sides of the notes. Alemseged said that elements embodied in the security feature are Arabian numeral of the value of the note, Geez numeral of the note in side the circulars mesh-type artistic design, Amharic emblem of the bank, full number of the bank in capital letters and finger print type and circular anti-copier background in place of the previous "void" features. The vice-governor also said that the added security features on the banknotes are believed to help discourage forged bills and forgery. Asked why the Bank added security features only on the 100 and 50 birr notes, Alemseged said that most of the counterfeit bills so far were these. According to him, the bank preferred the new security feature considering the experience of other countries and the cost for replacing it. The substitution of the notes would take one year to give enough time for the public, he added. "The public at large is expected to substitute all the 100 and 50 birr notes with a year. This does not mean that they should come to the bank for replacement," he said. According to him, the substitution would be materialized through the routine transaction and the bank would play a significant role injecting the new notes. October 1, 2004 Over 209 mln. birr projects, programmes designed to enable Africa to benefit from AGOA ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Leather and Leather Products Institute (LLPI) of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) says it has designed and produced nine projects and programmes at a cost of 209 million birr to enable the African leather industry to benefit form the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Director of the Ethiopian Leather and Leather Products Institute, Dr. Geremew Debele told a relevant seminar yesterday that stimulating and strengthening the capacity of the leather industry could enable to take advantage of AGOA. Dr. Geremew said strengthening the capacity of the East and Central African countries could enable to participate more effectively in the multilateral trade system. It could also help develop and implement private sector business support strategies for increasing trade under the AGOA. Governmental institutions and private investors engaged in the leather and leather products processing and export industries are in attendance at the two-day seminar. Sweden, nine NGOs sign cooperation agreements ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Embassy of Sweden signed yesterday cooperation agreements with nine NGOs on support amounting to around 145,000,000 birr for the development of the NGO sector over a three-year period. Representatives of CRDA, Pathfinder International, Pact Ethiopia, Sustainable Land Use Forum, Consortium of Reproductive Health Associations, Network of Ethiopia Women's Associations, Save the Children Denmark, Jerusalem Children Community Development Organization and Initiative Africa signed the agreement with counselor for Development Cooperation at the Embassy Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg. The support is in line with the Ethiopian Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) that Sweden has firmly supported, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia, Hakan Akesson said on the occasion. He said Sweden has increased its support to Ethiopia since last year as it has trust that Ethiopia is capable of combating poverty and bring about all rounded development. Vibrant civil societies are important towards strengthening the government's commitment to fight poverty in all directions as they play crucial role in promoting people's participation and ensuring public awareness, the ambassador said. Thus, he said, Sweden, for the first time, has given such large-scale strategic support to civil society organizations in Ethiopia. "We want to strengthen the capacity of the civil society to contribute to achieving the goals of the Ethiopian poverty reduction strategy," Lofstrom-Berg said. The Swedish country strategy for development cooperation with Ethiopia 2003-2007 has identified democracy and human rights, women's rights and advocacy against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child rights, HIV/AIDS and environmental issues as five areas of cooperation with NGOs in Ethiopia. The Government of Sweden selected the NGOs after making a thorough assessment with regard to their capacity and strength, among others, programme officer for development cooperation with the embassy, Adeye Befekadu said. As the most urgent area, HIV/AIDS gets the priority and highest allocation followed by democracy and human rights, and women's and child rights, she said. Some 24,000,000 birr per year of the total budget planned for the civil society support has specifically been allocated for the fight against HIV/AIDS over the 2004/05-2006/07. UEDP, MEDHIN merge by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The United Ethiopian Democratic Party (UEDP) and the Ethiopian Medhin Democratic Party (MEDHIN) have merged forming the "UEDP-MEDHIN PARTY." The merger was announced at a ceremony held at Sheraton Addis yesterday where the merger document agreement was signed by Chairman of the Central Council of MEDHIN, Dr. Moges Gebre-Mariam and President of UEDP, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu. Representatives of the two parties indicated on the occasion that joining their membership and all their resources is of paramount importance to fully and effectively participate in the overall democratization process. Executive of the Bipartisan Committee, Kifle Tigneh, told the gathering called to witness the merger that a federal government composed of self administrative regional governments as one of the main pillars of the party political programme. Accordingly, he said, the criteria for the federal arrangement shall include considerations of historical and cultural affiliation, language, geography, population distribution and conduciveness to good governance and development. In addition, economically, the Party's policies are based on the principle of "free market economy" and shall be designed mainly to bolster private sector participation, he said. On the occasion, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu was named President while Dr. Hailu Araya, Col. Goshu Wolde, and Ato Lidetu Ayalew Senior vice President, Vice-President and Secretary General respectively. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.1,2004 =============================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail - You care about security. So do we. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 5 12:45:29 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041005104529.8656.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 2, 2004 Ethio-German business partnership said growing Bilateral relations centenary to be celebrated by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - German Ambassador Strachwitz, Couness Dr. Helga said yesterday that business partnership between Ethiopia and her country gathered momentum after the signing of the bilateral agreement on the encouragement and reciprocal protection of investment following Chancellor Gerhard Schroder's visit on 19th January 2004. At press conference called to brief on the draft programme of the centennial of Ethio-German relations, the Ambassdor said that two German companies were so far engaged in the horticulture industry - one with nine million euros and another giant company which decided just recently to invest 35 million euros. The Ambassador said that other German companies are showing growing interest to invest in this country, which, she described as 'a promising start'. According to her, the German market for Ethiopian coffee still remains to be open and Germany continues to be the major purchaser - 35 percent of the country's coffee export. She also said that the German market is showing interest in Ethiopian wild coffee. So far, Germany had spent 1.2 billion euros on bilateral cooperation programmes in Ethiopia, she said. In the last two years and next year, some 70 million euros would be spent on development programmes especially vocational training and capacity building, she indicated. The Ambassador also announced the centenary of Ethio-German relations would be celebrated with various events. Conferences, exhibitions, and symphony concerts are some of the events planned to be staged both in Ethiopia and Germany. Senior officials' visit at presidential and PM level as well as parliamentarians is also part of the event. The Ambassador indicated that the opening of the new building of the German Cultural Institute and the Gebre-Kristos Desta Centre would be part of the event. "Since 1988/89, 35 of Gebre-Kristos' paintings most of them belonging to his family have been stored in the depots of the Staatliches Museum Fuer Voelkerkunde in Munich, In his last will and testament he instructed that his 'German' paintings should be returned to his native soil as soon as political stability was restored and respect for human rights guaranteed much as Picasso's Guernica eventually came home to Spain," she said. All parties concerned have agreed that the time has now come to fulfill his last wish, she added. Olympic Committee President dies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Assefa Mamo, who was the President of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee (EOC), passed away yesterday, the Committee announced. In a statement sent to ENA, EOC announced the death of Assefa, who had deep-rooted love for sports and was striving, for the expansion of sports in the country. The statement said the departed had been planning and executing various activities with a view to strengthening the Ethiopian Olympic Committee. It is saddening to sports fraternity that the late Assefa passed away at the time when he was active here and abroad to construct the Ethiopian Olympic Centre, the Committee said. Executive committee members and the sports families express their heartfelt condolences over the death of the respected sports leader, the statement said. The late Assefa was married and survived by a daughter and two sons, it said. According to the statement, the funeral of the late Assefa Mamo will be conducted today in Adi Abun near Adowa town of Tigray State. He was born in 1949 E.C.. Meanwhile, Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) expressed deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to EOC executive staff and the bereaved family over the passing away of Assefa Mamo. In a message sent to EOC, ANOCA President Ambassador Alpha Ibrahim Diallo said the death of the respected sports leader was a big loss not only to EOC but also to the African Olympic and Sports Movement. Providing accurate information to public ensures active participation in national election: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The upcoming national election will be one of the major activities of the year, the Ministry of Information, said in its weekly statement issued yesterday. The successful activity of such magnitude begins with creating a favourable condition for a fair and free election, the ministry noted. Therefore, the contending political parties are expected to provide the public the necessary information on the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of their programmes, what they have accomplished so far, their vision and direction in the future, the statement added. In regard to this, the debate between the political parties on the role of civil society and good governance organized by a Public Policy Forum of the Inter-Africa Group was held at ECA Conference Hall, on Sep. 26, 2004, the ministry underlined. Infact, the forum was characterized by tolerance the statement said, adding that it is important to note that such for a are venues through which political parties present their views and plans to the electorate. October 3, 2004 UNMEE to reduce troops soon ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) announced Friday that it would soon reduce its 3,600 strong peacekeeping force. UNMEE's Spokesperson Gail Bindley-Taylor Sainte told AFP that the reduction was made due to the departure of 500 Kenyan soldiers. The exact date of the departure is not yet known, he added. The UN Security Council extended on September 14 UNMEE's mandate until March next year, which, according to him called for a reduction in its size with a view to reducing its annual budget of about 200 million USD. Blair to arrive here Tuesday ADDIS ABABA (ENA/EH) - British Prime Minister, Tony Blair is scheduled to arrive in Addis Ababa, Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Commission on Africa scheduled to take place from 7-8 Oct. 2004, Associated Press (AP) reported. The 51-year-old Prime Minister established the Commission on Africa on February 28,2004 to take a renewed look at the challenges Africa faces and to generate increased support for the G8 Africa Action Plan. The first meeting of the Commission took place in London on 4 May 2004. The commissioners, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi then agreed on their work plan. Since the commissioners and members of the secretariat have been consulting widely with a wide range of stakeholders-including academia, parliamentarians, civil society, the development community and Diaspora groups. The commissioners will bring their ideas to Addis Ababa and work on them as a group. Their work in this second meeting will be the next step towards their final report and recommendations for action, to be published in spring 2005. Blair returned to Downing Street after a successful treatment to correct an irregular heartbeat at a hospital in west London on Friday, Xinhua reported quoting Sky News. According to the live television reports from the scene, Blair looked relaxed and smiled as he climbed out of his chauffeur-driven Jaguar and greeted the press. The Hammersmith Hospital said in a statement that the chance of his atria flutter returning was "very low". Blair was treated for "an irregular heartbeat due to atrial flutter (using) a planned procedure called radio frequency catheter ablation," said the hospital. "The procedure was successful in eliminating the atrial flutter. We consider the risk of refureence of the problem to be very low," it said. Blair first exhibited symptoms of an irregular heartbeat in October last year. The symptoms also reoccurred in August. He became the Prime Minister of Britain in 1997. ECA Executive Secretary urges journalists to fight against HIV/AIDS ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, K.Y. Amoako, called upon African journalists here Friday to actively participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS and focus on other major African issues. Responding to Questions posed by the journalists at the conclusion of a workshop on HIV/AIDS reporting, the Executive Secretary said a study conducted in 28 African countries by ECA shows that the role of African media is developing. "The good news is that in these countries, the role of the media, the emergence of private newspapers, the conduct in which news are reported is now making progress," he said. But, Amoako added that there are lots of things "to grapple with in terms of the role of the media in general." He said the media have to improve their performances in: "fairness issues, code of ethics, quality of reporting and the ability to see key issues and bring them to the attention of the people." The Executive Secretary said Africa is trying to rid itself of corruption and maladministration. So, he urged the journalists to make improvements in the dissemination of information. The Economic Commission for Africa and the Reuters Foundation organized the workshop, attended by 17 journalists drawn from Africa, Asia and Latin America. October 5, 2004 Houses commence 5th year tenure President says laws in the pipeline vital to enhance development, democratization endeavours by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis said the various proclamations expected to be enacted by the House of Peoples' Representatives this Ethiopian year would be instrumental in enhancing the ongoing development and democratization efforts in the country. Opening the joint session of the 5th year tenure of the Houses of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation yesterday, President Girma said the laws awaiting the approval of the Lower House would go along way in building execution capacity as well as promoting transparency and accountability in government institutions. Draft proclamations including the rural land administration and use; forest development, conservation and use' export meat licensing and organic agriculture system would have substantial contributions to the effective implementation of the rural development policy and to increasing the country's export earnings, the President said. The revised finance administration proclamation submitted to the House would enable to properly and effectively utilize public funds, he said adding that the proclamation would serve as a legal ground for other activities to be undertaken under the public expenditure reform subprogramme of the Civil Service Reform Programme. As regards boosting state revenues, President Girma said the amended proclamations of income tax and federal tax appeal council, among others, would help expedite the tax administration system thereby supporting the government's efforts to cover its recurrent and capital budget from local sources. The President also mentioned a number of legal frameworks in the pipeline in the areas of industrial and urban development. He said the proposal to re-establish the National Urban Planning Institute and the Design and Construction Supervisory Authority was part of these endeavours. The intended amendment of the Water Development Fund would help improve access to clean water, the President said, and expressed his conviction that the would-be established watershed development authority would come as a vital force in the efforts underway to ensure food self-sufficiency. President Girma also said that the draft press law, which, he said, had been extensively reviewed by local and international stakeholders, was expected to be approved by the House this year. The law would be critical inpromoting freedom of expression, which is enshrined, in the supreme law of the land, he added. He said a proclamation determining ways of entering into international agreements was also expected to be endorsed by the House in the stated period. The proclamation, he added, would help enhance Ethiopia's bilateral and multilateral relations and enable it to secure more development assistance. The revised proclamation of the licensing and registration of federal courts' lawyers, the proclamation for the expansion of youth sporting grounds as well as the documents registration proclamation and the advertisement proclamation and the advertisement proclamation were also among the laws expected to be enacted in the 1997 E.C., he said. The President has also stressed the need for making the legislative process more transparent through the active participation of the public, which, he said, would contribute considerably to intensifying the fight against poverty and backwardness. President Girma has also called upon the public to maximize their contribution in sustaining the encouraging results achieved in the areas of realizing rapid development and good governance as well as containing the spread of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The opening joint session of the two Houses has unanimously approved the minutes of the 4th year joint opening and first sessions. Addis set to make Johannesburg partnership fruitful, exemplary: Arkebe ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Addis Ababa City Government Mayor, Arkebe Equbay said that the City Government is committed to the success of Johannesburg Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAO) Programme. Arkebe said that his government is committed to make the Johannesburg and Addis Ababa partnership a fruitful and exemplary programme. Arkebe made the remark here while receiving a South African delegation led by Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo. Unemployment and limited access to decent shelter and other services were the two major challenges of the city, the mayor said, adding the city government has launched an integrated housing development programme to curb these problems. According to the Mayor, the housing development programme aims at constructing thousands of low-cost houses, creating employment opportunities and creation of an efficient and strong construction industry. The city has gained significant achievements in community participation and devolution of power to the kebele level, the lowest tier of government, he said. The city government in collaboration with the local communities has also been striving to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS, the mayor said. Arkebe said Addis Ababa would learn a lot from Johannesburg with regard to urban management, urban governance, and urban development through JAAP programme. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Mayor Masondo said the JAAP programme aims at forging cooperation between the two sisterly cities mainly on sustainable growth and development, empowerment of women, and experience sharing. "For instance", Masondo said, "Addis Ababa can learn a lot about Geographic Information System (GIS) from Johannesburg." He also said that the two sisterly cities could cement mutual cooperation to mitigate common problems like poverty, unemployment and rapid urbanization. Manager of the city of Johannesburg, Pascal Moloi said on his part the JAAP programme includes cooperation, among others, on strategic planning and management, quality service delivery, land and housing, finance and economic development as well as HIV/AIDS intervention activities. Addis Ababa City Manager Tesfa-Michael Nahusenay reiterated on the occasion the multifaceted development schemes of the city government with a view to upgrading the city. The 20-member delegation, which is here on four-day official visit, would have a series of discussions with senior government officials and also visit various development projects in the city. Addis Ababa and Johannesburg entered into partnership agreement in 2003. ==================================== pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2004 =========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 6 16:00:55 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041006140055.33630.qmail@web53306.mail.yahoo.com> October 6, 2004 Meles, German Parliamentary delegation discuss cooperation ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday held talks with members of the Economic and Development Cooperation Committee with the German Parliament. Meles told the German Parliamentary delegation led by Walter Riester that Ethiopia desires to see its cooperation with Germany to focus mainly on the area of technical and vocational training. Meles said the Ethio-German all-rounded cooperation has now been taken to a new height. He said the Government of Germany has greatly been assisting in the activities underway in Ethiopia to speed up sustainable development. Ethiopia is eager to share the enormous experiences of Germany in the fields of technical and skill training, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Meles as saying. Meles said Ethiopia would greatly benefit from technical and vocational training cooperation with Germany. After talks with Meles, Riester told journalists that the discussions held with the Prime Minister focused on ways of strengthening cooperation in the field of technical and vocational training. The visit by the German delegation aims mainly at looking into possible ways of further enhancing the cooperation between the two countries. Members of the delegation are scheduled to visit the activities of the Menschen fur Menschen in Harar today. Joint session passes resolutions on census, interest income tax House urges Oromia, Somali states to make successful plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA)- The House of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation have passed resolutions on issued pertinent to the Commission on Census and Interest Income Tax levying, collection and ownership. The two House passed the resolutions here yesterday during their joint session at the beginning of their 5th year term. The Houses endorsed the amended article to hold national census every ten years, and according to the results the House of the Federation shall decide the designation of constituencies according to the draft to be submitted by the National Electoral Board. However, the period for census may be prolonged in the event of problems beyond control, which the two Houses should prove in their joint meeting. According to the resolution, the Commission was expected to conduct a national census in 1997 E.C. in line with the Constitution's Article 103/5. However, as the schedule coincided with the upcoming national elections, the census is rescheduled for 1999 E.C. as there is a budgetary limitation to undertake both in a year. The two Houses, with no objection and six abstentions, endorsed the amendment. The two Houses also agreed that the Federal Government continue to be the body responsible for interest income tax levying, collection and ownership. Meanwhile, the joint session of the House of Peoples' Representatives and the Federation urged the Oromia and Somali states yesterday to make successful the plebiscite due to be held to determine the future status of the localities along the common borders of the two states. Members of the two Houses said the measures so far taken by the state and the Federal Governments to seek a peaceful solution to the problems along the borders of the two states were satisfactory. The peoples of the two states have expressed their desire to bring about sustainable economic development and facilitate ways for the establishment of good governance in their respective localities, Speaker of the House of the Federation Dr. Mulatu Teshome said. He said the plebiscite was believed to be instrumental in establishing durable peace along the common borders. He said it was entirely up to the people living along the common borders to determine their status by casting their ballots in a free and democratic manner. In another development, Speaker of the House of the Federation said yesterday that the House would be actively engaged in implementing the development policies and strategies designed to reduce poverty and bring about sustainable economic development. Dr. Mulatu Teshome said the House in its final term of office would also be involved in the establishment of democratic institutions and good governance. He said the House of the Federation is expected to pass various constitutional issues during its regular and special sessions this year. The House also decided in a unanimous vote that the people and housing census to be held in 1999 E.C. MPs say penal code improved in favour of women's children's rights ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Two members of the House of People's Representatives said that the improved penal code of the country has been prepared in the manner that upholds the rights of women and children. At a panel discussion held on the improved penal code and reproductive health rights jointly organized by Walta Information Centre (WIC) and Ipass International here yesterday, Chairman of the House's Legal Affairs Standing Committee, Asmelash Wolde-Sellassie said that the code ensures the rights of women and children as it has been improved in line with the constitution and international conventions that the country accepted. According to the Chairman, provisions that protect women and children from physical and psychological damages are included in the code. Provisions concerning abuse by family members, rape, circumcision, and abduction, which were not part of the previous penal code, are incorporated in the improved code, he said, adding that it also promulgates conditions of abortion. He said the code also punishes the trafficking of women and children as well as labour exploitation. Women's Affairs Standing Committee Chairperson, Genet Tadesse said, on her part that the government is taking steps in building the capacities of the judiciary besides providing legal framework for the rights of women and children. Participant said that through the improvement of the penal code has paramount importance in ensuring rights of women and children, attention should also be given to its implementation and the creation awareness among the rural people. Commission for Africa to meet here tomorrow ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Tony Blair's Commission for Africa is to meet tomorrow and Friday here in the Ethiopian capital, to discuss Africa's future. In their eyes, they feel the continent's main problems are regional conflicts, refugees, trade and corruption, according to a BBC news article posted on the Internet. The delegates plan to hear from Africans on these topics. President reaffirms gov't support to organization's humanitarian activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that the Ethiopian Government would provide the necessary support to the Lutheran Hour Ministries for its humanitarian activities in Ethiopia. During talks with Ministries' Interim Executive Director Donald Bennett, at the National Palace yesterday, the president said that the humanitarian activities contribute to the development endeavours in the country. "Your assisntace for the health sector would greatly contribute towards the efforts to improving health services," he said. The president also requested the Lutheran Hour Ministries to increase its assistance to Ethiopia. Briefing reporters following talks with the president, Bennett said that the Lutheran Hour Ministries have donated medical equipment to the Makalle, Axum and Humera hospitals. He said the Ministries have also donated over 18,000 packages of books, and magazines to Ethiopian school age children. Ministries African and Middle East Director Dr. Essayas Menkir said that the organization was established in Ethiopia 10 years back. According to him, the Ministries are engaged in the provision of humanitarian support to the needy and the health sector. The delegation was to leave for the US last night concluding its three-week visit here. Johannesburg Mayor stresses exploring more partnership areas Delegation visits dev't projects by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo, who is leading the South African delegation here on a three-day official visit, emphasized on the need for exploring more partnership areas to foster Johannesburg-Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAP) Programme. Following briefings the delegation received on Micro, Small-scale Enterprises (MSE) and visit to a model low-cost housing and neighborhood projects in different areas of the metropolis, the executive Mayor told the Herald that the two cities have a lot to learn from each other. "We have already have a sisterly agreement with Addis Ababa City Administration that sticks to address issues of poverty, economic development and cultural exchanges and specific attention is needed to ensure the transformation of this agreement into practice," Masondo said. After commending the progress made regarding cooperation, especially in relation to administration and information system, the Executive Mayor indicated urbanization and migration as the main problems of Addis Ababa which are in most cases similar to other cities, "Consolidating the good ideas shared would have a great importance in improving the quality of life of their residences," he added. Micro and Small Enterprises Development Manager with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Yohannes Solomon told the delegation that the City Administration is doing its level best to promoting this sector especially in construction, metal and woodwork, clothing, food processing and municipal activities. According to the manager, some 98,000 residents have benefited from the 44 million birr the City Administration provided in loan and aid last year. For this fiscal year, 250 million birr has already been allocated to benefit 150,000 people engaged in this sector, he said. After explaining the comparative advantage of the sector especially its labour intensive nature and the provision of products at an affordable prices, he indicated lack of capital, technological know-how and information as the main obstacles facing the enterprise. The delegates also visited the Bole/Gerji pilot low-cost housing project backed by the German Technical Cooperation, and 2.3 kms pavement roads and toilets constructed with community participation in Kebeles 01 and 19 of the Kirkos Sub-city at a cost of around 1.2 million birr. ======================== pol.Ethiopia Oct. 6, 2004 ================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 7 13:48:35 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041007114835.53003.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> Tony Blair arrives here Blair says Commission for Africa is about concrete actions to address Africa's problems by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Minister Tony Blair said the purpose of the Commission for Africa was to deal with in a comprehensive manner the fundamental problems besetting the continent and take concrete actions in partnership with Africans to address the problems. "The Commission's work is not simply to enlarge our understanding of Africa's problems but to pave the way for meaningful actions that will help get the problems resolved," said Mr. Blair in a press conference he gave along with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi at the National Palace later yesterday. Prime Minister Blair said Africa's problems related to debt, aid, trade, governance and conflict resolution need to be dealt with through the active involvement of Africans themselves and should be acted upon in a joint venture. "The Commission for Africa is a partnership arrangement in which we need to do certain things and African countries need to do certain things. It has to be a partnership between equals, no longer a relationship of donor and recipient," he said. Blair said that the Commission would not duplicate existing initiatives like NEPAD, which, he said, also promotes partnership. The Commission for Africa should support the NEPAD process by making sure that the developed world fulfils its commitments, he added. Prime Minister Meles on his part said that the establishment of the Commission would help the NEPAD process moves forward. "If I were to advise him [Blair] about how to most effectively support NEPAD, I would ask him to establish the Commission for Africa that he has already formed," Meles said. Prime Minister Blair reaffirmed his commitment to put Africa high on the agenda by next year when his country takes over the presidencies of both the European Union and the G8. "We have high hopes, and I believe that these hopes can be fulfilled, he added. Asked about the implementation process of the action plan expected to be produced by the Commission, Blair said he would take the document to the G8 Summit for endorsement. The African Union would also look into the proposal and forward its views, he added. "What I am concerned about here is not just coming up with such proposals but making sure that I am there all the way through its implementation," said Mr. Blair who personally took the initiative to establish the Commission. Prior to the press conference, Meles and Blair exchanged views on the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Britain as well as on other regional issues. Prime Minister Tony Blair arrived here later yesterday to attend the second meeting of Commission for Africa to be opened today. Prime Minister Meles and other senior government officials welcomed Blair upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Similarly, Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa, who is also one of the Commissioners, arrived here yesterday to attend the meeting. Meles and other officials welcomed President Mkapa. Meles calls for fairer trade to have fighting chance ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has called for fairer trade terms for Ethiopian in 'Doha trade round'. Meles told the BBC in an interview Tuesday that progress on the Doha round of trade negotiations would be uppermost in his mind. "Because in the long run, we can only trade our way out of poverty and the rules of the game are stacked against us. And we would like to see a fairer trading environment so that we can have a fighting chance. Asked when dependence on food aid would change, Meles said, "We are beginning to change that and we have a plan to completely overcome that problem within a period of three to five years. We have carried out one year of implementation of that programme and the performance has been quite good. We have had double digit growth of our economy last year. We expect similar growth this coming year. And if we could sustain that for two or three more years, we should be out of the woods." Meles said: "In the case of food aid, we are asking our partners not to give the farmers free food, but to make sure that people who can work for it, do work for it. And the food aid is used to ensure that these people do not come back to seek food aid at a latter stage." Asked if, in the interest of peace, it would not be better to agree with the ruling of the Boundary Commission, Meles said: "If this giving of land were to be a guarantee for peace, perhaps, but my argument is that if we are going to have completely unworkable boundary between Ethiopia and Eritrea, and I would divide a single house between two countries. I would suggest that such a boundary is a recipe for war." Some people are talking about war again this winter? Meles was asked, and answered, "If there is, it is not going to be started by Ethiopia. Ethiopia will never start another war with Eritrea. That is for sure." British Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday began a four-day visit to Africa to underline the developing world's concerns to find lasting solutions to the continent's problems especially on trade, aid and debt. After meeting officials in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, he would pray a central role in the British sponsored Commission for Africa, which is meeting in Ethiopia, the BBC said. House decides to hold plebiscite along Oromia, Somali common borders soon ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation decided to hold the plebiscite aimed at determining the status of the 463 localities along the common borders of the Oromia and Somali states soon. The House passed the decision during its session yesterday after holding talks jointly and separately with chief administrators of the two states. The chief administrations of the two states have reached an agreement to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. Previously, it was agreed to hold the plebiscite in 448 localities, according to the Speaker of the House of the Federation. He, however, said questions were forwarded by the states to include 15 localities in the plebiscite, adding that the chief administrators of the two states have agreed to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. The House passed the decision to include the 15 localities in the plebiscite after a thorough discussion with a majority vote. Of the 83 members of the House, three were against the motion. The House also decided the National Electoral Board would present the result for approval and the House would hold an extraordinary meeting. The House also decided the Speaker monitor the plebiscite process and presents a report back to the House on questions that may be raised by the people. Premier confers with Chadian Minister ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopia and Chad should work to consolidate their cooperation in the economy, training, transport and transfer of knowledge areas for the mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said yesterday. During talks held with the Chadian Minister of Public Works and Transportation Adoum Younousmi, the Prime Minister said it was the interest of Ethiopia to strengthen its economic relations with other African countries as well. Ethiopian has strong ties with many countries through the South-South Cooperation, he said adding that his country was keen to work with African countries in the sharing of experiences, as the problems affecting the livelihoods of the people in the continent are very much similar. Chad has shown interest to benefit from the training and maintenance section of the Ethiopian Airlines that has been flown to many African countries, according to an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the discussion. The Chadian Minister during his stay here was expected to visit various institutions in Ethiopia. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.7,2004 ============================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 8 15:21:47 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041008132147.82118.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 8, 2004 We cannot afford to stand by and watch Africa get left behind, says Blair by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Ministry Tony Blair said the developed world could not afford to stand by and watch Africa face the risk of being left behind as what happens in Africa also affects the rest of the world. "Armed with the evidence from the Commission for Africa about what Africa needs and what has held back progress in the past, I want to turn international attention on Africa into international action to help the continent beat poverty and end conflict," said Blair in his 'Africa Speech' delivered at the opening here yesterday of the second meeting of the Commission for Africa. Most Africa countries are still as poor as they were 40 years ago, the Prime Minister said, adding that in some countries life expectancy, having improved for many years, has fallen back to what it was in the 1950s as a result of AIDS. "Next year will be a year of decision for Africa and the rest of the world," Mr. Blair said referring to the time when UK will hold the G8 and EU presidencies and the completion of the Commission's document. "The price for failure will be disaster for Africa. The prize for success will be an Africa standing proud in its own right the international community." Prime Minister Blair also said that poverty and instability in the continent leads to weak states, which can become havens for terrorists and other criminals. They could go undisturbed by weak governments while they plan their next attack, he added. "The international community must allow African countries the space to determine their own paths to development agreed amongst their own people," he said. "Countries should not be forced to sign up to policies which they do not believe will work because a donor thinks they will," he added. Blair also underscored the need for donors to coordinate their development assistance. He mentioned the encouraging results witnessed in Mozambique where 14 donors and the World Bank were supporting common policies set by the government and agreed with donors. The Prime Minister further indicated that the African Union was already showing how important it would be, particularly on governance and security issues. He also expressed support for the Peer Review Mechanism of NEPAD for which 23 sub-Saharan African countries have singed so far. HIV/AIDS has already been undoing much of the progress that has been made in combating poverty in Africa in the last 20 years, he said and added, "If we can help Africa to stop progressing undone by disease and conflict, Africa grows. But in order to achieve the MDGs in Africa by 2015, progress needs to be much faster." Prime Minister Blair also said that the UK has more than doubled its aid budget to Africa since 1997 and would reach the UN target of 0.7 per cent GDP contribution in 2013. Britain would increase aid directly for Africa to one billion Pound Sterling next year, he indicated. In a press conference Mr. Blair, Prime Minister Meles and two other commissioners gave later in the afternoon, they disclosed that they had dwelt at length the work done so far since the first meeting in the areas of governance, peace and security, aid, education and culture, among others. Meles described the commissioners' closed session meeting as very fruitful, which, he said, were helpful for future undertakings. "The discussion was held in a spirit of partnership rather than in the donor-recipient manner," he added. Prime Minister Blair also commended Ethiopia's development and democratization efforts saying that there was now much progress as compared to what it had been some years back. Asked about donors' response to Ethiopia's food security programme, Meles said the programme has based itself on the abundant labour and resources the country has not just donor assistance. "We believe that we can ensure food security with or without donors. Donor assistance is supplementary that would help expedite the overall progress of the programme," Meles said. The Commission for Africa will continue its session today in open debate sessions with the African civil society. The commissioners will have the opportunity to discuss their work directly with the civil society particularly with women and young Africans. Earlier on the day, Prime Minister Blair visited the Eyerusalem Children's and Community Development Organization at Debre Zeit town, about 42 km east of Addis, where he met people living with HIV/AIDS, orphans and visited other projects of the organization. Blair expressed his government's support to community based HIV/AIDS prevention activities. Meanwhile, Mayor of the Addis Ababa City Administration, Arkebe Equbai presented the city's key to Blair in ceremony held at AU Headquarters. Blair thanked for the gift and the hospitality he has been accorded with in his stay here. Prime Minister Tony Blair left for London later yesterday. Prime Minister Meles and other officials saw off Blair at Bole International Airport. House decides budgetary subsidy bill be submitted at its second regular session Afar, Somali states appeal for more seats ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation has decided that the draft on budgetary subsidy for states be submitted at its second regular session. It has endorsed its 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. The House decided the 1997 E.C. budgetary subsidy allocations to be enforced as per the amended formula of the 1996 E.C. as the new budgetary subsidy bill has not been enforced in line with the timetable. It said, failure to submit the new budgetary subsidy formula in the House's second session would create difficulty in budgetary subsidy allocations for the year 1998 E.C. The House concluded its first 1997 E.C. regular session after endorsing the 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. Meanwhile, representatives of the Afar and Somali states told the House of the Federation yesterday that their representations to the seat of the Federal Parliament are incommensurate with the total population of the two states. They said the National Electoral Board used the census of the 1976 E.C. as its benchmark for deciding the constituencies instead of the census of 1987 E.C. The decision of the board to use the census of 1976 was illegal and inconsistent with the provision stipulated in the Constitution, they said. The House decided the National Electoral Board to come up with sufficient and convincing answers for the questions raised by the two states to its next extraordinary session due to be held soon. Meles inaugurates international leather trade fair ADDIS ABABA becomes AFLI seat by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday inaugurated a leather and leather products trade fair that brought 269 exhibitors from Africa and other international companies at the UN/ECA compound. Meles visited several stalls where wet blue hides and skin, finished and semi-finished leather, raw materials, chemicals materials, components, accessories and finished products are being exhibited. The three-day trade fair targeted manufacturers of foot wear, leather goods, clothing, luggage, accessories and other items, machinery and chemical buyers and tanners as well as buyers of finished products. Some 89 from the host country, 125 African and 55 international exhibitors took part in the trade fair. Meanwhile, the African Federation of Leather Allied Industries (AFLAI) Board members decided that Addis be its seat. Ethiopian Tanners, Footwear and Leather Garments Manufacturers Association Board Chairman, Bedada Chali, told journalists that for Ethiopia is the number one skin producer in Africa, and its capital the headquarters of AU, UN/ECA and the regional offices of many UN agencies, AFLI Board members where convinced to reach at the decision. AFLI is the largest institution representing professionals in the African leather trade and allied industries established to facilitate technology and market, organize trade fairs and training sessions, optimize the setting up of joint ventures and partnership between companies, it was learnt. President meets Action Aid Chief Executive, UNDP Resident Coordinator ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis yesterday met Chief Executive of Action Aid International Ramesh Singh and Action Aid Goodwill Ambassador Emma Thompson. Thompson, a celebrated actress with Oscar-winning mid 1990s work in such films as Howards End and Sense and Sensibility, has been on a ten-day working visit to Ethiopia since 3 October 2004. President Girma briefed singh and Thompson about the activities the government has been implementing to change the lives of the people for the better in the political, economy and social sectors. Girma also briefed the visitors on the efforts the government has exerted over the past years in the expansion of infrastructure facilities, including electric power supply, according to an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting. President Girma commended the development interventions Action Aid has launched in ten states in Ethiopia, and called on the organization to strengthen its development support. Singh on the occasion assured the President of Action Aid's commitment to enhance its interventions in environmental protection, HIV/AIDS and food security. Thompson took the occasion to exchange views with the President about the measures that need to be taken to curb the impact that entailed coffee price deflation. Looking at the coffee price impact on households in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State was one of the purposes of Thompson's visit. Action Aid will move ahead by integrating its development interventions with gender-friendly activities Thompson said. Thompson is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on 9 October, according to a press release Action Aid had sent to ENA earlier. "…The visit is expected to give her (Emma Thompson) better understanding of the poverty situation and the level of response in the country as well as Action Aid Ethiopia's contribution towards addressing the issue. "This would help her to carry her observation for wider audiences," the release said. Meanwhile, President Girma has called on the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance its support for Ethiopia in the areas of poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS and environmental protection. President Girma made the call yesterday during an audience with UNDP Resident Coordinator Modibo Toure. Girma called on Toure to exert efforts toward the enhancement of UNDP's project in Ethiopia. The activities UNDP has been carrying out in the area of support in food security and employment generation should be intensified through consultations with beneficiary communities, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting quoted Girma as saying. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.8,2004 ======================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 14 11:17:51 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041014091751.62773.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 12, 2004 4th African Development Forum opens Forum puts good governance at centre of development by Getachew Dibaba ADDIS ABABA - Good governance is a prerequisite and critical condition to put Africa on the path of development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. "Without good governance and the full respect of the democratic rights of citizens and all sectors of the society, it would be impossible to put in place conditions for durable peace and stability," Meles said. The Premier made the remark here yesterday at the opening of the 4th African Development Forum, which is being held at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) under the theme 'Governance for a Progressing Africa.' Political history of the continent clearly demonstrated that without durable peace and stability, there could be no development to speak of, Meles said. Executive Secretary of ECA, K.Y. Amoako, on his part reiterated that improvements in governance, human rights, peace and security are the necessary preconditions for sustainable human development in Africa. "Good governance promotes economic efficiency through equitable rules, by promoting fair and well-functioning markets. It curtails corruption and ensures the fair delivery of services," he said. The Executive Secretary also pointed out the crucial role of good governance in ensuring the participation of every sector of the society, coping with the challenges of HIV/AIDS and fostering investment. Amoako further stressed the need for the existence of highly active and progressive states to address multifarious problems of the continent. "As we seek effective ways to meet our challenges, we are consistently drawn back to one major focus: the need for capable state," he said. Expressing concern over Africa's fragile economic performance, which is well below what is required to meet the Millennium Development Goals, he underlined the paramount importance of placing good governance high on the agenda of development." There is a fear that the gains of recent years could slip back, and that further gains could be jeopardized," he said. Amoako also urged the African states to create an enabling environment for the active participation of the youth who make up half of Africa's unemployed while dealing with economic reform and national policies. The Executive Secretary also lauded the commitment of African countries to good governance for they show increasing interest to involve in the African Peer Review Mechanism, which is designed to review countries' performance on governance issue. "Twenty-three countries, representing 75 per cent of African population, have agreed to take part in the process," he indicated. Recalling NEPAD's Democracy and Governance Initiative, which is based on the premise that development is impossible in the absence of true democracy, respect for human rights, peace and good governance, he called for the commitment of African countries for the success through involving public and private sector stakeholders and ensuring transparency and accountability. Citing ECA's groundbreaking 28-country study on "measuring and Monitoring Progress towards Good Governance," the Executive Secretary on the occasion revealed that governance is getting better in the continent. "The situation across the continent is markedly different from just a decade ago. People believe that their political peace is being liberalized. They tell us that human rights and the rule of law are more widely respected and that the media and civil society are advancing. Women's participation in the political process has increased markedly in several countries," he said. He, however, pointed out that important areas need to be strengthened to further improve good governance. According to Amoako, parliamentary capacity, legal and judicial reforms, public sector management, credible and responsible media and the environment for the private sector, among others, are areas that show capacity deficits, even in countries making good progress. The five-day forum would examine and debate ways of improving governance in Africa today. Meanwhile, an exhibition displaying activities of about 50 local and international organizations was opened at the ECA yesterday. October 13, 2004 Global Fund makes 640 mln. USD support to Ethiopia ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Director-General of the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria said the Fund has made a 640 million USD support to Ethiopia. The Director-General, Professor Ricahrd Feachem made the remark while conferring with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi here yesterday. He also told journalists after the talks that the stated amount of money would be used for the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria in the next five years. He said Ethiopia is given priority among the 130 countries in the world in which the Global Fund has launched prevention activities against the stated diseases. The Director-General has also assured Meles that the Fund's assistance towards the prevention of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria would continue in the years ahead. Feachem said priority should be given to the effective and appropriate utilization of the stated amount of money for intended programmes. Meles assured Feachem on his part that the fund would be used immediately and appropriately for the programmes launched against HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria. UNAIDS Director-General Peter Piot who also held separate talks with Prime Minister Meles yesterday, said that the encouraging achievements gained in containing the spread of HIV/AIDS in Addis Ababa should further (Global P.7 President awarded UNAIDS' Medal ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis was awarded a UNAIDS' Medal for his outstanding contribution made in the fight against HIV/AIDS. UNAIDS Director General Peter Piot handed out the medal at a special ceremony held here yesterday at the UN Conference Centre (UNCC). Speaking on the occasion Piot expressed appreciation to the personal efforts of President Girma to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country. He also assured the President that UNAIDS' support to Ethiopia would further be strengthened in the years ahead to enable it contain the spread of HIV/AIDS. President Girma said on his part he would continue and strengthen his personal efforts toward the prevention and control of the pandemic. He also mentioned that the government has been implementing an HIV/AIDS intervention activity to prevent the spread of the infection. President Girma said HIV/AIDS was on corporated in the country's health extension package, which is being implemented at the grass roots level. Priority has been given to HIV/AIDS prevention activities by religious organizations and society at large, he said. World Bank Vice-President commends Ethiopia's strive to meeting MDGs by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President of the World Bank, Francois Bourguignon, said that Ethiopia is accomplishing commendable jobs to meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and remarkable achievements have been registered in different areas that put the country one in the top list in the developing countries. Briefing local journalists and foreign correspondents at Sheraton Addis yesterday, the chief economist indicated that given the right amount of aid from donor countries and good management of debt, the country for sure could meet the MDGs. Ethiopia is undertaking promising activities especially in the areas of governance, education, health, rural development and sanitation among others, he said, and went on to state that the World Bank would do its level best in the deepening of the scaling up process of the activities so as to accelerate the development and attain the MDG by the year 2015. He also underscored the need for improving the country's communication sector, banking system and tax administration to attract more investors and meet the needs of the society. Information obtained on the occasion also indicated that the Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) finalized in July 2002 aims at broad institution and structural reform to speed up the pace of growth, to distribute the gains to poor people and also accelerate progress towards meeting the MDGs. According to a development progress paper, Ethiopia has embarked on an impressive reform and development, though much more needs to be done in attaining the MDGs. Likewise, gross school enrollment increased from 33 per cent in 1990 to over 64 per cent in 20000, total adult literacy rose from 28 per cent in 1990 to 40 per cent in 2001 and total youth literacy increased from 42 per cent in 1990 to 56 per cent in 2001. In addition, GDP per capita grew an average 5.6 per decreased from 128 per 1000 in 1990 to 116 in 2002. The World Bank's Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for Ethiopia, covering FY 2003-05, which is based on the governments SDPRP, focuses on human development outcomes, enhancing pro-poor growth and reducing vulnerability, the paper added. October 14, 2004 Meles meets His Royal Osei II of Ashante Leaves for Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday met His Royal Majesty Opumfuo Osei II of Ashante Ghana. The Discussions between the two parties centered on ways of strengthening the South-South Cooperation. Prime Minister Meles and His Royal Majesty Osei recognized the amicable long standing relations between Ethiopia and Ghana. They said it would be beneficial for the two countries to enhance cooperation in the economy and cultural fields, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His Royal Majesty Osei is here to attend the Africa Development Forum IV (ADF IV). He presented a paper on traditional governance at the Forum. Meanwhile, a high level Ethiopian delegation led by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi left for Budapest, Hungary yesterday to attend the meeting of progressive governance. Upon departure at the Bole International Airport, senior government officials saw off the Prime Minister. The Budapest meeting was the continuation of that was held in London, England. Residents register for plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Office of the National Electoral Board said that voter registration for the plebiscite to determine the status of the disputed localities along the common borders of Oromia and Somali states is in progress. Office Deputy Head Teasfaye Megesha told ENA yesterday that people in the 641 localities, where the plebiscite would be held, have been registered in a remarkable turnout. He, however, said some kebele and woreda officials were not cooperative and even failed to provide leadership as expected. A joint committee for the purpose has enabled to address some of the problems identified in the process of voter registration, he said. ============================ Pol.ethiopia Oct.14,2004 ================= __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 15 14:30:31 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041015123031.89443.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 15, 2004 President elect Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed, Somalis can count on support of Ethiopia: Meles ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The inauguration of Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed as President of Somalia heralds a new beginning of national reconciliation is Somalia and the end of Somalis statelessness, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. Reading out the message of Prime Minister Meles at the inauguration of the new President yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya, Foreign Minister Seyoum said the occasion was a major landmark and a turning point in the history of the people of the sub region. We have always known that durable peace and stability in the region had to wait the rebirth of the Somalia State, Meles said in his message. The countries of the region have managed at last to stand behind the people of Somalia in unison in full solidarity. Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed is a person who has proved to be formidable… He is a Somali patriot who has always stood for principles never flinching no matter how difficult the challenges, he said. He said, I am extremely proud to have had with this proud son of the people of Somalia an enduring friendship based on a clear understanding of the mutual interests of our peoples and that of the peoples of our sub region. He said, as the new government would begin everything from ground zero, the support of the international community is imperative. The support becomes indispensable not only in the interest of Somalia, it is also in the vital interest of the whole international community that Somalia is regenerated and the rule of law is restored in the country and that Somalia joins the community if nations with all state institutions put in place, he said. The Prime Minister said our friend President Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed and the people of Somalia can always count on Ethiopia to stand with them shoulder-to-shoulder as they proceed to lift the Somali State from the ashes. Meles also urged the United Nations, the African Union and the League of the Arab States and other organizations to do whatever is possible to ensure that the new government is installed in Mogadishu as speedily as possible. Progressive Governance meeting opens in Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance meeting in which several leaders from various countries in the world including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is attending opened yesterday evening in Balaton, Hungary. The two-day meeting, which is being held in closed session, is expected to deliberate on Europe's future progressive politics, among others. The meeting is also expected to deliberate on the challenges and aspirations of progressive politics with the aim of exchanging ideas, experiences, and best practices that will help in the development of progressive solutions towards the problems experienced worldwide. Hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyursany, the meeting is being attended by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, South African President Thabo Mbeki and leaders of several other countries. Some 150 leaders from around the world, policy makers and politicians are also in attendance at the meeting. State Minister says capital goods leasing is an alternative financial instrument by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA - State Minister of Trade and Industry said that international experience indicates that Capital Goods Leasing is used in many parts of the world as an alternative financial instrument to minimize problems in the sector, particularly to satisfying investment requirement. Opening a half-day International Finance Corporation (IFC) Seminar on Leasing in Ethiopia at Sheraton Addis yesterday, Tadesse Haile said that recognizing the significance of the industrial sector in general and the manufacturing sector in particular, the Government of Ethiopia has adopted an Industrial Development Strategy which considers the prime importance of the private sector as an engine of growth. The State Minister added that the government is exerting every possible effort to create favourable environment for the private sector in line with the strategy. He further indicated that the development of the sector in this country was facing various problems access to both short and long-term financing being one of the major constraints. According to him, the Government of Ethiopia promulgated Capital Goods Leasing Business Proclamation No. 130/1998 and the associated directives since 1997. Realizing the slow development of the leasing industry, his ministry development has initiated a study to look into the proclamation and directives. A press release obtained from IFC indicates that leasing, as a financial tool, can play a significant role in economic growth fostering advance in production and broadening spectrum in the financial market. It provides medium-term to long-term financing which is vital to investments, according to the release. The release also said that successful leasing promotion requires constructive partnerships among governmental local commercial institutions and international organizations. Officials of IFC said that the mission of the Corporation is to promote sustainable private sector investment in developing countries, helping to reduce poverty and improve peoples' lives. They also said IFC finances private sector investment in the developing world, mobilize capital in the international financial market, and provides technical assistance and advice to governments and businesses. The seminar was attended by the government, local financial institutions, the business community, insurance companies, consulting companies and business support institutions. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.15,2004 =========================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Express yourself with Y! Messenger! Free. Download now. http://messenger.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 19 11:04:27 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:37 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041019090427.72436.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 16, 2004 Swedish Ambassador lauds Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme Diplomatic ties golden jubilee to be marked Oct. 19 by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson has commended Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme reaffirming his government's readiness to further increase its assistance. Briefing journalists in connection with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties at the embassy yesterday, the ambassador appreciated Ethiopia's commitment to combating poverty and ensure food security. "Last year, Ethiopia and Sweden signed a new development cooperation agreement where we our doubling are development where we our doubling are development cooperation to Ethiopia. We did it because we trust the Ethiopian Government and its ability to further open up the country politically and economically. We did it because we know that the Ethiopian Government takes its task of combating poverty very seriously and has very good poverty reduction programme that we base our cooperation on," the ambassador said. As to the ambassador, Ethiopia also has a very dynamic civil society that would really bring about a real difference for the poor with the support of the international community. His government, according to the ambassador is working with Ethiopia in the areas of education, health, rural development, humanitarian assistance, forestry, human rights and democracy, private sector development, justice sector reform as well as research cooperation among others. Marking the Golden Jubilee of the diplomatic ties between the two countries, a seminar on education, a photo exhibition as well as buffet-reception with Daniel Lemma (Ethiopian born Swedish) and the Cherry Bombs, a Swedish jazz band would take place in Addis Ababa on October 19,2004. The first ever Swedish development cooperation agreement with any country in the world was signed with Ethiopia in 1954 aimed at establishing the Building College in Addis Ababa. Sweden has allocated 500 million birr for this year of which 120 million would go for direct budgetary support, he said. Ambassador further indicated that Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia over the past 50 years is estimated to reach 13 billion birr. UN Humanitarian Envoy to arrive here today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - UN Humanitarian Envoy Martti Ahtisaari will make a three-day visit to Ethiopia to review progress in breaking the cycle of hunger and poverty, AFP said quoting the United Nations Thursday. It said the former Finnish president will be making his fourth trip to Ethiopia since his designation in June 2003 as the Special Envoy of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan concerned with the humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa. Ahtisaari, who will arrive today, will review the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia and measures taken by the government and relief agencies to break the cycle of hunger and poverty. He would meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, government officials, humanitarian agencies and international donors representatives. The number of people relying on emergency food assistance now stands at 7.8 million, and almost 1.2 million tonnes of emergency food and non-food assistance valued at 85 million dollars is needed overall for Ethiopia this year, it said. A report of the Joint Evaluation of the Response to the 2002-2003 Emergency in Ethiopia is to be released to next Monday, according to AFP. African countries urged to institute, strengthen affirmative action policies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Participants of the 7th African Regional Conference on Women said African countries should institute and strengthen affirmative action policies and programmes aimed at increasing women's and girl's access and retention in order to address gender imbalances in education and training. They said the affirmative action may include scholarship at all levels for female students, distance and non-formal education and literacy programmes for women, innovative and aggressive strategies to redress the under representation of women and girls in the sciences. In a statement they issued at the conclusion of the meeting here Thursday, the participants said in order to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other targets on reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, governments in collaboration with NGOs and the private sector should provide accessible sexual and reproductive health care services and education for women and girls. The statement said given the importance of communication and speed, with which information and communication technology (ICT) evolves, it is important that the region adopt and implement gender-aware media policies. It also said African governments should adopt gender-responsive policies, programmes, strategies and measures on environment. Success of creating conducive investment climate depends on ensuring good governance: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Ministry of Information said in its weekly statement issued yesterday, that the activities of countries to harness their natural resources to the benefit of their citizens are expanding and acquiring momentum. Most countries are engaged in fierce competition to maximize their share from the global investment flow, the statement said. Accordingly, it is important for the nation to exert maximum effort to attract investors, who engage in various activities to develop the untapped resources in our country, the statement added. According to the statement, it is true that tremendous measures have been taken to promote investment since the adoption of the free market economic system in the country. The provision of Civil Service Reform Programme (CSRP), the designation of plots of land for investment activities in urban and rural areas, are the major steps taken to ensure fundamental changes in the country, the statement underlined. As a result, such an effort was confirmed by the World Investment Report of the United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) launched in Addis Ababa on Sep.4 2004, which has rated our country as one of the countries that have created ideal investment environments in the world, the statement said. October 17, 2004 Progressive Governance Summit concludes issuing joint communiqué ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance Summit attended by 14 heads of state and government in Budapest, Hungary, including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi concluded its two-day session Friday issuing a joint communiqué. The participants of the summit declared in their communiqué to promote openness, tolerance, mutual respect, inclusion and solidarity. They stated their resolve to advance progressive polices within the global and regional institutions and pledged to honour the commitments made in the institutions and to encourage others to do the same. An open and fair-rules based on global economic and trade system can assist everyone to benefit from globalization, supported by regional and international cooperation, they said. "We encourage international financial institutions to become even more responsive to the imperatives of poverty reduction, social stability and to ease the burden of heavily indebted poor countries and economies in the transition." They also agreed to examine the reasons behind the failure to meet some of the development goals set and reinforce those of the Monterrey Consensus to promote national and global economic system based on the principles of justice, equity, democracy, participation, transparency, accountability and inclusion. The participants of the summit welcomed the recent initiatives of the United Nations to fight hunger and poverty. With regard to globalization, the participants said they pledged to ensure all their citizens to have access to decent and stable employment by providing an economic environment that supports job creations. "Progressive governments understand that the fruits of growth must generate the wealth necessary for investment in human capital, social mobility and cohesion." They said it was important for the progressives to empower the individual to take more control of their own lives-fighting poverty, expanding opportunity, social mobility, personal responsibility and developing power closer to citizens. A comprehensive approach including bordering development aid facilitating access to markets, creating an enabling environment for companies and promoting good governance is indispensable for sustainable development and would strengthen international cohesion as well as social development. Progressive governments condemn terrorism in all its forms and support international efforts to combat its existence and spread, they said. They said multiple threats including international terrorism, regional conflicts, and proliferations of weapons of mass destructions, environmental degradation and the pandemics like HIV/AIDS impact on all the countries. The participants of the summit also looked into the situation of Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Middle East, Haiti, Sudan and the Korean peninsula. At the invitation of the South African President, the leaders agreed to hold the next progressive governance summit in that country. Meanwhile, at the end of the summit Prime Minister Meles Zenawi told a press conference that developed countries should deliver the pledges they made to support the development endeavours of the poor countries. He said the support of the international community was vital for the developing countries to reduce poverty and seeped up development endeavours. The Prime Minister said developing countries should take concrete steps that could facilitate ways for development, debt concellation, trade and attract the flow of foreign investment, among others. During his stay in Hungary, Prime Minister Meles met and held discussions with his Hungarian counterpart on ways of consolidating the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The delegation led by the Prime Minister Meles returned home late Friday night. Meles, Wolfensohn visit farmers' lentil production activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and World Bank President James Wolfensohn yesterday visited the activities of the farmers engaged in lentil production in Gimbichu Woreda of East Shoa Zone, Oromia State. Briefing the high profile visitors, representatives of the farmers said lentil production, which they have engaged in through the extension programme using improved technologies, is already paying off. They said the yield per hectare has been going up since they have begun employing frost-resistant seeds and receiving support from the development agents (DAs) the government has deployed in support of their lentil production activities. Our lentil crops used to shrivel frequently by frost, they said recalling the hard times they endured through before the launching of the extension programme. Accordingly, the yield per hectare now grows to 20 quintals from 15 or less previously, they indicated. They told Meles and Wolfensohn that their lives have steadily been improving with the farmers replacing thatched huts with more comfortable houses. According to the farmers, through their lentil production activities, many others have been getting access to employments at the increasing number of lentil processing mills. They said they would not have reached this level without the support of the government. During the visit, discussion was held with Gimbichu cabinet members about the 1996 E.C. performance and future plans. One of the good security strategies of the Ethiopian Government has been providing support to household farmers to engage in the production of marketable agricultural items, including horticultural products, apiary, and dairy products, among others. October 19, 2004 Ethiopian Embassy working to attract investment, trade ADDIS ABABA (ENA) Ethiopian Ambassador to five European countries said her embassy has attached priority attention to the enhancement of trade and investment cooperation with Eastern European countries. Ambassador Halima Mohammed, who is accredited as Ethiopian Ambassador to Austria, Hungary, Romania, Slovak and Bulgaria told journalists in Budapest last week that her embassy, based in Vienna, will pay attention to attracting investors from Eastern European countries to Ethiopia. The embassy earlier had been preoccupied with the task of forging cooperation with UN agencies and other international organizations based in Vienna, she said. The chief activity of the embassy now is attracting trade and investment to Ethiopia and finding markets to Ethiopia's exports to Europe, she said. In its endeavours to promote the image of Ethiopia and to attract investors, the embassy would join hands with Ethiopians residing in Eastern Europe, she indicated. She said it was through the efforts of the Ethiopians there that MATADOR, a Slovak Company, has been able to forge joint venture with Addis Tyre Factory. She said investors of Eastern European countries have shown interest to invest in Ethiopia, adding Austrian companies have already entered Ethiopia with joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts. Activities have been launched to enable investors from Eastern Europe to engage in coffee and leather and leather product investments, among others, according to Ambassador Halima. Meanwhile, she said, the number of tourists who are coming to Ethiopia from Eastern European countries was steadily increasing owing to promotional activities. She said more than 20 tourism operators from Austria have entered Ethiopia. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.19,2004 ======================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 20 13:11:18 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:38 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041020111118.90246.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 20, 2004 Ethiopia, China sign 10.5 mln. birr grant accord as 6th Joint Commission Session concludes President confers with Chinese Deputy Minister of Trade by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopia and China yesterday signed a 10.5 million birr grant agreement and expressed their commitment to further consolidate their trade relation and bilateral cooperation while reviewing projects being implemented here by the latter. The agreement, singed by State Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr, Mulu Ketsela, and Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce Liao Xiaoqi, will be used to finance project costs that would be jointly identified by the two sides. Opening the sixth Ethio-China Joint Commission Session earlier in the day, Dr. Mulu indicated that over the last decade, the trade balance had been entirely in favour of China while Ethiopian export items were limited to agricultural products. "The current bilateral trade relation is encouraging, since a gradual progress in raising the quantity of Ethiopia's export products to China is being made; albeit at a very limited market share for Ethiopia's export." Dr. Mulu said. She also indicated that within the last two years several improvements have been made to make the investment climate more enabling. The number of sectors where investment was restricted to Ethiopians only has now been reduced and the time to set up and register a business has been decreased from months to hours thanks to the reform measures the Investment Commission effected, Dr. Mulu said. Moreover, she said an investment fund for exporters has been set up and the government is making land available for investors with the establishment of industrial zones. The Joint Commission session, among others, discussed the performances of China-implemented projects. The Chinese Vice minister and his delegation indicated during the meeting that they want to further intensify their relation especially in vocational training. They also expressed their strong desire to engage in Ethiopia's telecommunications sector where a competent company would apply for the bidding. The Chinese delegation also said that Chinese companies would further work very hard to increase their efficiency and competence to win high confidence from the Ethiopian side. Different exchange of notes to conduct studies in the areas of road construction, industry and mineral resources; and an agreed minutes which stipulate the mutual understanding reached during the session were also signed. Meanwhile, President Girma Wolde-Giorgis has called on Chinese investors to engage in agriculture and textile investment sectors here ENA, reported. During talks here yesterday with the visiting Chinese Deputy Trade Minister Liao Xiaoqi, President Girma said such cooperation would further strengthen the economic cooperation between Ethiopia and China. Girma said there are a wide range of opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade and investment sectors. The relations between Ethiopia and China have been taken to a new height, he said, adding the agreements signed between the two countries same day will further cement the cooperation between the two countries. He called on Chinese investors to establish agricultural, textile and industrial investments in Ethiopia on their own or in joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts, which he said would be greatly beneficial to both countries. He also called on the Government of China to enhance its support in the area of human resource development through training. Xiaoqi on his part said he has held constructive discussions with officials of the Ethiopian Government on issues pertinent to the enhancement of cooperation between the two countries. A Foreign Ministry Official who attended the meeting quoted Xiaoqi as saying that the visit made him well aware of the availability of wide opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade, investment and other sectors of the economy. Evaluation report commends effort launched to overcome 2002-03 drought ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The efforts exerted by the government and various humanitarian organizations to save the lives of 13 million people exposed to drought during the 2002/2003 were productive, according to a report. Evaluation of the response to the 2002-03 emergency report launched in the presence of the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan special envoy for humanitarian crisis on the Horn of Africa Martti Ahtisaary and Commissioner Simon Mechale said it had been possible to provide over 1.5 million metric tons of relief to the affected people. The government, donor organizations, the UN specialized agencies, NGOs and international community have worked in close cooperation and consolations to help victims of the natural disaster. It said donors have also provided in donation non-food assistance to the people during the reported period. The Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission (DPPC) had used private transport enterprises to transport the relief from the port of Djibouti. The commission also established over 1,200 distribution centres to provide the much needed relief assistance to the needy. Some 46 therapeutic feeding centres were also established in the areas seriously affected by the drought to provide relief assistance to the over 20,000 children, according to the report. The report also suggested that it was imperative to keep in reserve a huge quantity of grain and seek ways to consolidate the financial capacity of the DDPC with a view to overcoming future disasters. EAL needs to pursue reform: CEO ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines has indicated the need for the national carrier to pursue reform with a view to maintaining its competitiveness in the international aviation industry. Girma Wake made the remark here at Sheraton Addis yesterday at a meeting held to assess a study on Ethiopian's future operations. Ethiopian is exerting efforts to introduce new working systems geared toward enhancing its competitiveness in the aviation industry. He said competition in the aviation industry has come to be tougher with the rising fuel cost in the international market. Ethiopian, thus, need to pursue reforms that would enable it remains competitive in the aviation industry, which is becoming increasingly tougher. He said the 2003/2004 profit the Airlines made would not augur profitability now that the road to competitiveness is getting rough. EAL board members, including Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin attended the meeting. Ethiopian during 2003/2004 netted 31.7 million US dollar from air transport services. NEB offers training for coordinators of upcoming elections ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The National Electoral Board (NEB) offered a day-long training here yesterday to coordinators of the 2005 national and state elections. Candidates will begin electioneering beginning November, NEB Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha said. Voting will be conducted on 15 May 2005. NEB has made the necessary preparations in the process of elections, h said, adding that endorsement signature forms and other information will be made handy for private and party candidates. According to the timetable made public by the Board, candidates will be receiving endorsement signature forms at next-door education offices from 30 October 2004 to 6 January 2005. The coordinators will deliver the endorsement signature forms and other materials to the education offices in their respective constituencies, he indicated. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.20,2004 ========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 22 13:53:42 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:38 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041022115342.17666.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> October 21, 2004 Results achieved in enhancing women's educational participation said promising by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Education, Minister says Genet Zewdie that results achieved both in enhancing women's participation in education and to increasing their enrolment were promising. Opening the 4th Forum for Women's Education at the conference hall of the ministry yesterday, the minister indicated that in addition to the 4.4 per cent gross enrolment increase above the set target for the 1997 academic year, the gap between the two sexes in primary education has declined to 18 per cent. Accordingly the gross enrolment for both sexes has now reached 68.4 per cent surpassing the planned 64 per cent by the end of this academic year. Though the primary education is characterized by overage students problem, the net enrolment for the age groups 7-15 has reached 57 per cent out of which 51.8 per cent are women, she said. A five-year special curriculum has been designed to address the problem involving four million overage children throughout the country, the minister added. According to W/ro Genet, there is a plan to increase women's primary education enrolment to 80 per cent within five years, which would create a fertile ground mainly in transforming the agricultural sector and empowering and making them ready for short-term trainings. The enrolment of women has also reached 48 per cent in vocational and skill training centres and 29 per cent in higher institutions. Lauding the role of such forms, the minister also stressed on the need for the active participation of pertinent bodies and the society at large in addressing socio-economic problems hindering women's participation. The forum would assess the five year (1997-2002 E.C.) strategic plan of all states aimed at enhancing women's educational participation and also design a national implementation strategy for the same period. Over 300 women representing state women's affair, higher institutions, teachers and other women's associations are in attendance at the three-day forum. AU military chiefs discuss boosting Sudan force ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - African military officers discussed the details of a plan to expand an African Union peacekeeping force in Sudan's Darfur region Monday, hoping to provide a more effective mission to monitor cease-fire breaches. A working paper circulated by AU officials at a meeting in the Ethiopian capital acknowledged that the current mission of 150 cease-fire monitors and 300 AU troops was too small to provide effective cover of a region the size of France. The paper, obtained by Reuters, proposed boosting the force by around 3,300 staff, comprised of 2,341 military personnel, 815 civilian police, 132 other civilian support staff and 32 staff to be stationed at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. "The threat of raids and looting of villages remain significant. The number of civilians leaving their villages for the safety of IDP (Internally displaced people) camps continues to grow," the document said. "The population's lack of trust in the police and other government organizations is seen as a major obstacle to overcome the process of returning to normality," it said. The United Nations estimates 70,000 people have died of malnutrition and disease in Darfur, a figure the government disputes. The total does not include deaths due to violence because U.N. officials say reliable figures do not exist. The military chiefs gathered ahead of a scheduled meeting of AU's Peace and Security Council on October 20 to decide on the expanded duties and numbers of the Darfur force. AU Chairman Olusegun Obasanjo, the Nigerian President, said last week that the AU will begin deploying 4,000 more troops to Darfur, bringing the total to 4,500 by the end of November. It was not immediately clear why the number of extra troops differed from the figure suggested in the working paper. The document said an annual budget of up to $221 million would be required for the enhanced force to be deployed in Darfur, but did not say where the money would come from. An African diplomat working closely with the AU said the money could come out of the European Union's $312 million peace support fund, which it has placed under the AU's authority. Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties golder jubilee marked by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The golden jubillee of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties was marked Tuesday October 19, 2004 with various events organized at Sheraton Addis. Addressing a seminar that discussed cooperation between the two countries, State Minister of Finance and Economic Development Dr. Mulu Ketsela commended the various Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia. "Especially in the last two frameworks of our cooperation, we were able to enhance our bilateral consultations and witnessed noticeable change in the scope of Swedish involvement and skill assistance. It is in this period that we received over 1 billion birr for the period of five years," she said. Minister of Education Genet Zewdie, on her part appreciated Sweden's important role in the history of Ethiopia's modern education. "Nearly half of our primary schools have been built through Swedish assistance and the schools built in different parts of the country are indeed the monument of Swedish commitment to the people of Ethiopia." W/ro Genet also indicated that it was not only in terms of school construction that the education of this country benefited from Sweden. "We have received enormous support worth of millions of dollars in the provision of educational materials," the minister added. She also took the opportunity to call upon the Swedish Government to further strengthen its excellent cooperation and establish a strong partnership on mutual respect and support especially in the areas of capacity building in which education and training are its main component. Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson said that his government's active partnership with to the Ethiopian Government emanates mainly from its commitment to establish good governance, combating poverty and backwardness and bring about rapid economic growth. As part of the programme, a photographic exhibition and a musical show was presented by the Cherry Bombs - a Swedish band including Ethiopian born Swedish Daniel Lemma. The Swedish community in Addis Ababa, government officials including President Girma Wolde-Giorgis, members of the diplomatic corps and other invited guests attended the programme. October 22, 2004 House endorses appointment of judges, bilateral accords ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed the appointment of four judges and two bilateral trade agreements. In its second Fifth Year Regular Session, the House endorsed the appointment of a judge for Federal High Court and three others for First Federal Instance Courts as presented by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. The House also endorsed by acclamation the Ethio-Algeria and the Ethio-Libya Bilateral Trade Agreements, submitted by the Trade and Industry Standing Committee. The agreements are expected to enhance Ethiopia's trade ties with the two countries. The House has also referred the proclamation to ratify the agreement signed on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment between Ethiopia and Iran to the same Committee. The agreement would have a significant importance in bringing into foreign investment technology, administrative know-how and inflow of capital to Ethiopia. The House has also referred the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction Ratification to the Foreign, Defence and Security Affairs Standing Committee for further scrutiny. OPDP resolves to raise women's political representation during upcoming elections ADAMA (ENA) - The Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO) has announced activities to raise women candidacy for the upcoming national elections by 30 to 50 per cent. In line with the resolution passed during OPDO's 5th organizational conference held recently, public consultations have now begun to nominate women election contestants with a view to boosting the limited political representation of women, OPDO Office Head Aberra Hailu told ENA. OPDP has launched activities to nominate competent women candidates in its bid to raising women representation at the parliament from 13 to 54 and that at the state council from 70 to 200, he said. OPDO members have been on the move to enable women to benefit fully from their right to elect and be elected as well as to nominate women contenders who meet criteria, he indicated. Raising the political representation of women is vital in view of their responsibilities in the society and their greater roles in the efforts geared towards ensuring sustainable development, he said. He expressed the commitment of OPDO to realize the resolution. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.22,2004 =================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Mon Oct 25 14:49:21 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:38 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041025124921.75120.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 23, 2004 Somali President arrives here ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed arrived here yesterday on a working visit. Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin and other senior government officials accorded him a warm-welcome upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. While here, the Somali President will hold talks with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and other government officials on issues of current affairs in Somalia. President Abdullahi is also to hold talks with the Peace and Security Council of the African Union enhancing peace and security in Somalia. He is also to meet and hold talks with EU Secretary-General Javier Solana, who was also to arrive here last evening. Axum Obelisk to be transported home next December ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Efforts aimed at transporting the Axum Obelisk from Italy to Ethiopia until the coming December are well underway, Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Teshome Toga said. Ambassador Teshome told ENA Thursday that a study enabling to transport the Obelisk by aircraft has already been finalized. Tehsome, who is also Chairman of the National Committee for the Return of the Axum Obelisk, said Ethiopia on its part has accepted the study that would enable to transport the Obelisk by aeroplane. The study has confirmed that the Obelisk can be transported safely by "Antonov 124" aircraft from Italy to Ethiopia in three rounds, he said. Inviting companies who will compete in an auction to transport the Obelisk will be the next step, according to the Minister. The Obelisk has already been dismantled safely and packed, and was kept in an airport in Rome, Ambassador Teshome said. According to the study, Axum Airport has the capacity to accommodate the stated aircraft while work on the construction of a road linking the airport with the place where the Obelisk will be re-erected, is in progress. The return of the Obelisk to country of its origin will have a paramount importance in enhancing the longstanding friendly relations and bilateral cooperation between Ethiopian and Italy, Ambassador Teshome said. Council refers bills to House ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Council of Ministers referred bills to the House of Peoples' Representatives with some amendments for approval after a thorough discussion. Office of the Cabinet Affairs Ministry told ENA yesterday that, the Council in its 117th session discussed the agreement signed and the ratification bill to secure loan from the Arab Bank for the African Economy Development for the provision of safe drinking water to the Kibre-Mengist town. The Council also passed a decision on the agreement singed with the International Development Association and ratification bill to obtain loan for the provision of safe drinking water and implementation of sanitation projects as well as for the government's capacity building sector. Accordingly, the Council checked that the loan agreements were consistent with the loan strategy of the country and decided to refer the bill to the House of Peoples' Representatives for approval. The ministers also looked into the amended bill on retired employees jointly organized by the ministries of Justice, Labour and Social Affairs and Trade and Industry as well as Social Security Authority after a direction was given by the Council. The amended bill has included new articles that could protect the benefits of employees. The Council referred the bill to the House of peoples' Representatives for approval. Gov't committed to strengthen, sustain educational reform: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Government of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia has issued an appropriate education policy and launched the educational and vocational training programme with the firm belief that execution capacity building is a key task in extricating the country from poverty and backwardness, the Ministry of Information said. According to the ministry's weekly statement issued yesterday, the task of capacity building requires vast and perpetual activities. As education and vocational training are instruments of building execution capacity, special focus and attention was given to the reform process, it said. In the last few years, various intensive activities were launched to address the issue of execution capacity building and mitigate problems in the educational and vocational training sector, the statement said. The statement further said that many schools were built in rural areas which benefited millions of children and efforts were exerted to improve the secondary and higher education sector. Citing the multifaceted activities underway to make educational institutions that produce competent and truly educated citizens capable of realizing all-round development, the statement said this achievement is assumed to be a result of the joint efforts of parents, the government and the public at large. The statement finally said the government is committed to strengthen and continue the joint effort in partnership with all stakeholders, particularly teachers and students to improve the quality of educational and the vocational training system. October 24, 2004 Meles reaffirms Ethiopia's continued support for Somalia Holds talks with Solana ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi says that Ethiopia would continue to extend support for Somalia until peace and security is ensured and permanent government is established. During talks with the newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, here yesterday, Meles said that his country is committed to strengthen peace and security in Somalia. Meles recalled that the people and government of Ethiopia have also been extending their support for Somalia from the beginning up to now to maintain peace and security in the Country. Out of its strong commitment to bring about peace and stability, Ethiopia has been exerting maximum efforts throughout the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring a lasting peace in Somalia that has helped form the transitional government in the country. Prime Minister Meles said that Ethiopia would do everything possible to ensure law and order in Somalia in the years ahead. He also expressed his conviction that country neighbouring Somalia and the international community would continue their support for the establishment of a permanent government in Somalia. President Abdullahi called for continued Ethiopian support to bring about lasting peace in his country. He also conveyed thanks to the people and government of Ethiopia as well as member countries of IGAD for their unwavering support towards ensuring peace in his country that led to the establishment of the transitional government. Sharif Hassen Shekh, Speaker of the Transitional Federal Parliament told journalists on his part that the Parliament was successfully formed through public participation thanks to the efforts launched by Ethiopia and other IGAD member countries. Sharif also thanked Ethiopia for providing hospitality to tens of thousands of Somali refugees at a very difficult time. He also called for Ethiopia's and AU's continued support for the efforts of the Somali Transitional Government. Asked about the transitional government's plan to include Somaliland within the present government, the Speaker said that efforts have already been launched to include it and through peaceful means. Speaking to journalists on his part, Special Ethiopian Envoy to the Somali National Reconciliation Conference, Ambassador Abdulazizi Ahmed, said that the people of Somalia were happy that the transitional government has been formed. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks here yesterday with European Union Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana on situations prevailing in the Horn of Africa. The talks between the two officials centered on the peace process in Somalia and humanitarian crisis in Darfur, according to a spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also deliberated extensively on the activities being done by the African Union to ensure law and order in Somalia. Meles and Solana have also discussed ways of the support the EU will extend to the peacekeeping force to be deployed by the African Union in Darfur, Sudan, the spokesperson said. They also held wide-ranging discussion on ways of EU's support to be given to the Transitional Government of Somalia to help it ensure peace in its country. Solana told journalists after the talks that he and Prime Minister Meles had constructive discussion on the efforts launched to maintain peace and security in Africa. Plebiscite determining fate of 463 kebeles to be held today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The plebiscite that will determine the fate of 463 kebeles bordering Somalia and Oromia states would be held today as scheduled, the National Electoral Board said. The people living in kebeles, where the registration of voters has been completed, would go to polls beginning 6:00 a.m until 6 p.m today, the Board told ENA yesterday. Election executives, observers and security personnel would be in polling stations beginning from 11:00 a.m, it said. The plebiscite will be held in secret ballots, according to the Board. Both states have territorial claims over the stated kebeles and the plebiscite is expected to resolve the problem. ================================ pol.ethiopia Oct.25,2004 ====================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 28 14:52:46 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:38 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041028125246.48493.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 28, 2004 Extreme poverty in Nile Basin said linked to environmental resources mismanagement by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA- Vice Minister of Water Resource said that extreme poverty in Nile River Basin is closely lined to the mismanagement of the environmental resources on which the basin people depend for survival. Opening a three-day workshop "Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project" at the Ethiopian Management Institute yesterday, Ato Mesfin Tegene said that the Nile River is the longest river in the world, travelling over 6,700 kms that covers one tenth of Africa's total landmass. "It serves as home to world-class environment assesses an estimated 160 million people within the boundaries of the basin; while nearly twice that number - roughly 300 million - live within the ten countries that share or depend on Nile waters, many of them among the world's poorest,:" he added. The Vice Minister also said that to prepare an action plan geared towards concerted basin wide environmental interventions, Transboundary Environmental analysis (TEA) has been developed in May 2001 by Nile riparian states in cooperation with the UNDP and World Bank with a fund provided by the Global Environmental facility. The process was also backed by USAID. According to him, the TEA is intended as both a catalyst and valuable resources to the Nile riparian countries and their international partners as their historic political cooperation begins to be translated into effective measures aimed at sustainable economic development in the Nile Basin. He further indicated that as environmental education and awareness racing programme within the Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project, focus on creating awareness on the river Nile environmental threats, stimulating behavioral change at three levels - the general public, secondary schools and tertiary institutions. The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), formally launched in February 1999 by the Council of Ministers of Water Affairs of the Nile Basin countries (Nile-COM), is guided by a shared vision; "to achieve sustainable socio-economic development through the equitable utilization of, and benefit from, the common Nile Basin water resources." Some 65 senior professionals drawn from the Ministry, Oromia, Gambella, Benshangul-gumuz, Tigray and Amhara states and other pertinent governmental offices, representatives from international and local donor organizations re in attendance at the workshop. ICRC organizes discussion on alternatives to imprisonment ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in collaboration with Penal Reform International conducted a two-day discussion on the alternatives to imprisonment, which is known as community service. According to press release of ICRC sent to WIC yesterday, discussions were held on the community service that is a scheme under which judicial decisions require a light offender to perform unpaid work in the community with a view to making reparations for the offence one has committed. Is said the workshop at the Ghion Hotel was aimed at creating a forum where stakeholders discussed the advantages and disadvantages of community service in the Ethiopian context. On the occasion, Vice-Minister of Justice, Ali Suleman, said that the current Justice Reform Programme in Ethiopia is improving the legal system in general and the alternatives to prison punishment in particular by giving it primary attention. The commissioner General of Ugandan Prison, the Programme Co-ordinator for community Server in Kenya and an expert from Switzerland shared their respective countries experiences followed by panel discussions led by the head of Africa Programme from penal Reform International. Amhara Justice Bureau Head and the Deputy commissioner of the Federal Prisons presented papers on the importance of alternatives to imprisonment in the Ethiopian context and the problems to be encountered at the implementation stage. The workshop was opened by Marco Brudermann, head of ICRC delegation, and attended by representatives of the Federal Prison Commission, Ministry of Justice, Parliament, Institute of legal Studies, Ministry of Federal Affairs, Ministry of Capacity Building, federal courts as well as state justice bureaus, courts and prison administrations. Sudanese Parliament approves expansion of AU mission to Darfur ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - THE Sudanese national Assembly approved Tuesday the expansion of the African Union (AU) mission to its troubled western region of Darfur, Zihhua reported Tuesday. The lawmakers made the decision after listening to a statement delivered by Foreign Minister Mustafa Thaman Ismail on the issue, it said quoting the official Omdurman Radio report. Ismail told the parliament that this choice is the best among all proposals. "The AU mission would be assigned to a duty of monitoring the ceasefire breaches by either side, building confidence between the conflicting sides, monitoring aid flowing to the needy people in Darfur, providing good conditions to stop hostilities between all sides as well as creating chances for development, said Ismail. The AU, which is sponsoring peace talks between the Sudanese Government and the Darfur rebels, announced this week that it was set to boost the number of truce-monitoring troops in Darfur sevenfold to 3,320. Some 150 AU ceasefire monitors are in Darfur along with more than 300 troops to protect them, according to the Chinese news agency. The expanded missions will comprise over 3,000 persons who are expected to be deployed in camps and to monitor Sudanese police. =========================== pol.ethiopia Oct.28,2004 ============== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail Address AutoComplete - You start. We finish. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 29 14:40:13 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Feb 27 14:15:38 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041029124013.97413.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 29, 2004 House passes three bills Civil servants' amended Pension Proclamation goes into effect ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed agreements reached with the Governments of Libya and Iran and a bill amending Civil Servants Pension Proclamation. The House endorsed the bills unanimously during its 5th year 3rd regular session. Accordingly, the House endorsed the bill providing for the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Libya to cooperate in cultural, youth and sports. "This agreement is believed to promote the image of Ethiopia and to help strengthen the capacity building efforts underway," the Information and Cultural Affairs Standing Committee said in a recommendation. The other bill provides for investment promotion and protection agreement reached between Ethiopia and Iran. The Trade and Industry Affairs Standing Committee in a recommendation said that the agreement would be vital to enhance the cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the field of investment and the economy. Meanwhile, the House endorsed the amended bill providing for Civil Servant's Pension and decided that it go in to effect on October 28, 2004. The amended proclamation has a new Sub-article (3) which states: "A public servant who has completed at least 20 years of service and who has reached at least 45 years of age may receive retirement pension for life where the government office he has been working for ceases to exist or he is reduced from the workforce in connection with privatization or his contract of employment is terminated as a result of inefficiency by a decision of the Council of Ministers." Sub-article (2) of Article 17 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who has been receiving invalidity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." Yet another Sub-Article (2) of Article 30 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who is receiving incapacity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." EAL graduates 11 pilots by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Multi-National Aviation Training Centre of the Ethiopian AirLines (EAL) yesterday graduated 11 Ethiopian pilots who completed the commercial pilot course with Instrument and Multiengine Ratings. After handing out diplomats and awards to the class 36A of pilot's wing, Flight Operations Executive Officer Capt. Tesfaye Ambaye called upon the graduates to be active enough in applying what they learnt and keep learning in the course of their career. Pilot Training School Manager Col. Belay Assefa on his part said that the School was to embark on a new approach of handling the commercial pilot course different from that of the traditional way that was in use for the last 40 years as of November 1,2004. "We have developed a new integrated course syllabus structured for Private Piloting Licence (PPL), Commercial Piloting Licence (CPL), Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings (IR/ME) to be handled progressively instead of one complete CPL/IR/ME package," he said. According to the Manager, the School has also purchased two additional used C-172XPs aimed at building the capacity of the training fleet to meet the ever increasing training demand. The Manager also called upon the graduates to always commit themselves to work hard and remain abreast of the fast advancing technology. "Always make SAFETY your objective and open your mind to learn from your senior professionals," he advise the graduates. During the 24 months of their stay, the group has covered 1000:00 hours of class instruction 250:00 hours of practical flight training both on single and multiengine Trainer flight training aircrafts. The Outgoing class brings the total number of graduates to 728 out of which 437 are Ethiopians and 291 foreign graduates from over 33 African countries. EAL officials, parents of the graduates and other invited guests attended the graduation ceremony held at the Employees' Main Cafeteria. Sweden, UNDP sign pledge to support election ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Government of Sweden and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement in support of the Basket Fund sponsoring the Multi-Donor Assistance for the 2005 National Election in Ethiopia, UNDP said here yesterday. According to UNDP press release, the contribution of 10 million Swedish Kroner from Sweden should be seen in the context of pledges estimated at over 4.5 million US dollars from the Donor Sub-Group on elections, chaired by Sweden. The release said Austria, Canada, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Spain and Sweden, among others, are members of the Sub-Group. The overall objective of the Multi-Donor Trust Fund Project is to contribute to the development of a free, open and accountable political system of governance and the consolidation of democracy in Ethiopia through the organization and conduct of the fourth-coming national elections in May 2005. In fulfilling these objectives, the current project is designed to assist the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEB) with the conduct and overall management of the electoral process in cooperation with a range of national stakeholders. Counsellor with the Embassy of Sweden, Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg and Resident Representative of UNDP, Modibo Toure signed the agreement, according to the release. EC allocates 12.5 mln. euros to drought, disease victims in the Horn ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The European Commission (EC) has allocated 12.5 million euros in humanitarian aid to victims of drought and disease in the horn of Africa- Eritrea (1 million), Ethiopia (6.5 million), Kenya (3.85 million) and Somalia (1.15 million). Activities will include emergency health care in Somalia and Ethiopia, and emergency drought response in Eritrea, Ethiopia and Kenya. This EU support will provide a lifeline for thousands of pastoralists suffering from the effects of water shortage, the Commission's Humanitarian Aid office said on Wednesday. Funds will be channeled through the European Commission's Humanitarian Aid Directorate General (ECHO) which comes under the responsibility of Commissioner Poul Nielson. In Eritrea, receding ground water levels following successive years of drought are leading to pockets of acute need as water supplies fail. ECHO emergency assistance will secure essential water supplies, and supplementary nutritional assistance. An estimated 150,000 people, mainly women and children located in rural areas, are expected to benefit from these activities over the next twelve months. In Ethiopia, acute needs have arisen in the southeast due to drought; while in a number of regions malaria is reaching epidemic levels, notably in areas where populations have recently been resettled, it said ECHO will provide emergency water and nutritional assistance to drought affected areas. In addition, ECHO will provide emergency medical assistance including more effective medicines to address epidemic malaria. In total, up to one million people are estimated to benefit from this assistance over the next 12 months. In Kenya, much of the north of the country, and in particular the pastoralist populations there, are suffering from drought. An estimated 600,000 people will benefit from a range of activities financed by ECHO, including emergency water, health and veterinary assistance. In Somalia, as a result of over a decade of civil war, health indicators are amongst the worst in the world, and the most vulnerable people have little or no access to health care. ECHO's assistance will focus on providing access to primary and secondary health care through support to clinic and hospital facilities including vaccination, pediatric and maternity care. This decision will help an estimated 250,000 people, especially in the capital Mogadishu. ==================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.29,2004 ======================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 1 10:15:29 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041001081530.21069.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> September 30,2004 National coffee export rose to 109,895 tonnes: Ministry ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The national coffee export has been raised to 109,895 tonnes in the year 2002 from only 50,967 tonnes 14 years ago, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development said. Speaking at the inauguration workshop of quality coffee project, Belay Ejigu said yesterday coffee export has been increasing owing to the attention attached to the expansion and the quality of coffee production. Coffee accounts 40-60 per cent of the country's export, Belay said, adding the livelihood of some 15 million households depend of coffee directly or indirectly. The minister underscored the need to improve both the quantity and quality of exportable coffee to benefit from the highly competitive world coffee trade. He also said the farmer has a vital role toward improving the quality of coffee. Hence, improved extension work should enhance harvesting, drying and strong performances at the level of farmer's holdings. Around 75-80 per cent of coffee in Ethiopia is prepared in dry processing though wet processing is more advantageous on attaining high price, the state minister said. Opening the workshop, Director for International Development (CABI) Dennis Rangi said Africa, with more than 300 million people living in extreme poverty; represents only three per cent of global trade. Rangi said his organization would continue providing technical and financial support to the quality coffee project. The three-day sub regional workshop that discusses coffee quality and price as brought together close to 70 participants from the various African countries including Ethiopia. EU runs 1.8 bln. euros cooperation programmes by Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA - The European Union (EU) is currently engaged in multi-faceted cooperation programmes in Ethiopia allocating 1.8 billion euros primarily focusing on three main planks of the programme budgetary support, developing transport infrastructure and food security issues. In an exclusive interview with the Herald yesterday, Mr. David Limpan, EU Information, Press and Communication Head and Ambassador Timothy Clarke, Head of Delegation of the European Commission in Ethiopia, said that Ethiopia is the most important recipient of development, food and emergency aid. Ambassador Clarke said: "Historically, we have been involved in food security and infrastructure for many years here since 1975," adding that his job within the Commission is to deliver these resources-high quality, major impact, leading people's needs and fighting poverty. "Our main focus here is really an overall context about development cooperation, to try to fight poverty and turn poor people from the chronic situation where they are in. We are also engaging in a very serious dialogue with ministers and try to see how we can involve in these issues," he said. He further said: "Europe is and will remain a really major partner to Ethiopia and we want to deepen that partnership with a view to ensuring and providing cooperation assistance highly targeted and high quality," according to Ambassador Clarke, the EU also runs cooperation programmes through NGOs, the civil society and other stakeholders. The EU extends not only financial assistance but also gives political support in trade and private sector development, he said. "We are involved in one or another in every single element of the economy of Ethiopia," Ambassador Clarke said. Commenting on the trade and investment relations between the EU and Ethiopia, the Ambassador said: "We have already involved through our direct budgetary support programmes and the support to the private sector to try to encourage liberalization of the market in providing support to micro and small-scale enterprises. We are also interested in supporting Ethiopia's efforts through the Adoha trade negotiations to try to improve the position of Ethiopia. Food security covers different areas-emergency food aid, technical assistance at woreda and kebele levels. In the future, a safety nety programme which the government has been negotiating with all donors which EU and the World Bank are the two biggest. We had meeting yesterday to finalize an aid memoir for the programme which involves some 200 million euros annually to support upto 5 million individuals who are chronically malnourished," Ambassador Clarke said. He also said that government is in a very credible effort to make all attempts to ensure that the money allocated goes to the right channel. "We are also considering a new injection of up to 120 million euros into the safety net programme over several years. And we have reached the final stages with the government on how this money should be allocated," he indicated. He further noted that Ethiopia plays a pivotal role in the region to bring peace, and stability, to Somalia, Sudan and the neighbouring countries and said: "We are very encouraged by many of the steps taken by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and his colleagues in trying to promote peace, stability, security and conflict resolutions mechanisms." Mr. Lipman, on his part said: "We have decided to bring to Addis all the press and information officers of the European Commissions' delegations in Anglophone, Francophone Africa as well as Portuguese speaking African countries. Basically, we have got simple messages! Who are we? What is Europe? What is the European Union? The 25 countries?" "We have to explain very simply to people what we are going to help. For instance, in Africa, it is largely development assistance programmes." According to Mr. Lipman, the European Union is the largest donor for development assistance in the world. Some 50 per cent of the world development assistance is given by the EU of which 20 per cent is managed by the Commission and its delegations. So there are very simple messages. Lots of things that we are doing but people don't know and we have to talk about who we want to target the media and the decision-makers among others, he said. National Bank adds security feature on 100, 50 birr notes New notes to be in circulation as of today by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - The National Bank of Ethiopia yesterday announced that additional security feature has been added on the 100 and 50 birr notes to guard against the ever-increasing counterfeit bills. Bank Vice-Governor Alemseged Assefa told journalists that the new notes, which would be incirculation beginning today bear holographic lead with primer on the front sides of the notes. Alemseged said that elements embodied in the security feature are Arabian numeral of the value of the note, Geez numeral of the note in side the circulars mesh-type artistic design, Amharic emblem of the bank, full number of the bank in capital letters and finger print type and circular anti-copier background in place of the previous "void" features. The vice-governor also said that the added security features on the banknotes are believed to help discourage forged bills and forgery. Asked why the Bank added security features only on the 100 and 50 birr notes, Alemseged said that most of the counterfeit bills so far were these. According to him, the bank preferred the new security feature considering the experience of other countries and the cost for replacing it. The substitution of the notes would take one year to give enough time for the public, he added. "The public at large is expected to substitute all the 100 and 50 birr notes with a year. This does not mean that they should come to the bank for replacement," he said. According to him, the substitution would be materialized through the routine transaction and the bank would play a significant role injecting the new notes. October 1, 2004 Over 209 mln. birr projects, programmes designed to enable Africa to benefit from AGOA ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Leather and Leather Products Institute (LLPI) of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) says it has designed and produced nine projects and programmes at a cost of 209 million birr to enable the African leather industry to benefit form the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Director of the Ethiopian Leather and Leather Products Institute, Dr. Geremew Debele told a relevant seminar yesterday that stimulating and strengthening the capacity of the leather industry could enable to take advantage of AGOA. Dr. Geremew said strengthening the capacity of the East and Central African countries could enable to participate more effectively in the multilateral trade system. It could also help develop and implement private sector business support strategies for increasing trade under the AGOA. Governmental institutions and private investors engaged in the leather and leather products processing and export industries are in attendance at the two-day seminar. Sweden, nine NGOs sign cooperation agreements ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Embassy of Sweden signed yesterday cooperation agreements with nine NGOs on support amounting to around 145,000,000 birr for the development of the NGO sector over a three-year period. Representatives of CRDA, Pathfinder International, Pact Ethiopia, Sustainable Land Use Forum, Consortium of Reproductive Health Associations, Network of Ethiopia Women's Associations, Save the Children Denmark, Jerusalem Children Community Development Organization and Initiative Africa signed the agreement with counselor for Development Cooperation at the Embassy Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg. The support is in line with the Ethiopian Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) that Sweden has firmly supported, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia, Hakan Akesson said on the occasion. He said Sweden has increased its support to Ethiopia since last year as it has trust that Ethiopia is capable of combating poverty and bring about all rounded development. Vibrant civil societies are important towards strengthening the government's commitment to fight poverty in all directions as they play crucial role in promoting people's participation and ensuring public awareness, the ambassador said. Thus, he said, Sweden, for the first time, has given such large-scale strategic support to civil society organizations in Ethiopia. "We want to strengthen the capacity of the civil society to contribute to achieving the goals of the Ethiopian poverty reduction strategy," Lofstrom-Berg said. The Swedish country strategy for development cooperation with Ethiopia 2003-2007 has identified democracy and human rights, women's rights and advocacy against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child rights, HIV/AIDS and environmental issues as five areas of cooperation with NGOs in Ethiopia. The Government of Sweden selected the NGOs after making a thorough assessment with regard to their capacity and strength, among others, programme officer for development cooperation with the embassy, Adeye Befekadu said. As the most urgent area, HIV/AIDS gets the priority and highest allocation followed by democracy and human rights, and women's and child rights, she said. Some 24,000,000 birr per year of the total budget planned for the civil society support has specifically been allocated for the fight against HIV/AIDS over the 2004/05-2006/07. UEDP, MEDHIN merge by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The United Ethiopian Democratic Party (UEDP) and the Ethiopian Medhin Democratic Party (MEDHIN) have merged forming the "UEDP-MEDHIN PARTY." The merger was announced at a ceremony held at Sheraton Addis yesterday where the merger document agreement was signed by Chairman of the Central Council of MEDHIN, Dr. Moges Gebre-Mariam and President of UEDP, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu. Representatives of the two parties indicated on the occasion that joining their membership and all their resources is of paramount importance to fully and effectively participate in the overall democratization process. Executive of the Bipartisan Committee, Kifle Tigneh, told the gathering called to witness the merger that a federal government composed of self administrative regional governments as one of the main pillars of the party political programme. Accordingly, he said, the criteria for the federal arrangement shall include considerations of historical and cultural affiliation, language, geography, population distribution and conduciveness to good governance and development. In addition, economically, the Party's policies are based on the principle of "free market economy" and shall be designed mainly to bolster private sector participation, he said. On the occasion, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu was named President while Dr. Hailu Araya, Col. Goshu Wolde, and Ato Lidetu Ayalew Senior vice President, Vice-President and Secretary General respectively. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.1,2004 =============================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail - You care about security. So do we. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 5 12:45:29 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041005104529.8656.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 2, 2004 Ethio-German business partnership said growing Bilateral relations centenary to be celebrated by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - German Ambassador Strachwitz, Couness Dr. Helga said yesterday that business partnership between Ethiopia and her country gathered momentum after the signing of the bilateral agreement on the encouragement and reciprocal protection of investment following Chancellor Gerhard Schroder's visit on 19th January 2004. At press conference called to brief on the draft programme of the centennial of Ethio-German relations, the Ambassdor said that two German companies were so far engaged in the horticulture industry - one with nine million euros and another giant company which decided just recently to invest 35 million euros. The Ambassador said that other German companies are showing growing interest to invest in this country, which, she described as 'a promising start'. According to her, the German market for Ethiopian coffee still remains to be open and Germany continues to be the major purchaser - 35 percent of the country's coffee export. She also said that the German market is showing interest in Ethiopian wild coffee. So far, Germany had spent 1.2 billion euros on bilateral cooperation programmes in Ethiopia, she said. In the last two years and next year, some 70 million euros would be spent on development programmes especially vocational training and capacity building, she indicated. The Ambassador also announced the centenary of Ethio-German relations would be celebrated with various events. Conferences, exhibitions, and symphony concerts are some of the events planned to be staged both in Ethiopia and Germany. Senior officials' visit at presidential and PM level as well as parliamentarians is also part of the event. The Ambassador indicated that the opening of the new building of the German Cultural Institute and the Gebre-Kristos Desta Centre would be part of the event. "Since 1988/89, 35 of Gebre-Kristos' paintings most of them belonging to his family have been stored in the depots of the Staatliches Museum Fuer Voelkerkunde in Munich, In his last will and testament he instructed that his 'German' paintings should be returned to his native soil as soon as political stability was restored and respect for human rights guaranteed much as Picasso's Guernica eventually came home to Spain," she said. All parties concerned have agreed that the time has now come to fulfill his last wish, she added. Olympic Committee President dies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Assefa Mamo, who was the President of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee (EOC), passed away yesterday, the Committee announced. In a statement sent to ENA, EOC announced the death of Assefa, who had deep-rooted love for sports and was striving, for the expansion of sports in the country. The statement said the departed had been planning and executing various activities with a view to strengthening the Ethiopian Olympic Committee. It is saddening to sports fraternity that the late Assefa passed away at the time when he was active here and abroad to construct the Ethiopian Olympic Centre, the Committee said. Executive committee members and the sports families express their heartfelt condolences over the death of the respected sports leader, the statement said. The late Assefa was married and survived by a daughter and two sons, it said. According to the statement, the funeral of the late Assefa Mamo will be conducted today in Adi Abun near Adowa town of Tigray State. He was born in 1949 E.C.. Meanwhile, Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) expressed deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to EOC executive staff and the bereaved family over the passing away of Assefa Mamo. In a message sent to EOC, ANOCA President Ambassador Alpha Ibrahim Diallo said the death of the respected sports leader was a big loss not only to EOC but also to the African Olympic and Sports Movement. Providing accurate information to public ensures active participation in national election: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The upcoming national election will be one of the major activities of the year, the Ministry of Information, said in its weekly statement issued yesterday. The successful activity of such magnitude begins with creating a favourable condition for a fair and free election, the ministry noted. Therefore, the contending political parties are expected to provide the public the necessary information on the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of their programmes, what they have accomplished so far, their vision and direction in the future, the statement added. In regard to this, the debate between the political parties on the role of civil society and good governance organized by a Public Policy Forum of the Inter-Africa Group was held at ECA Conference Hall, on Sep. 26, 2004, the ministry underlined. Infact, the forum was characterized by tolerance the statement said, adding that it is important to note that such for a are venues through which political parties present their views and plans to the electorate. October 3, 2004 UNMEE to reduce troops soon ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) announced Friday that it would soon reduce its 3,600 strong peacekeeping force. UNMEE's Spokesperson Gail Bindley-Taylor Sainte told AFP that the reduction was made due to the departure of 500 Kenyan soldiers. The exact date of the departure is not yet known, he added. The UN Security Council extended on September 14 UNMEE's mandate until March next year, which, according to him called for a reduction in its size with a view to reducing its annual budget of about 200 million USD. Blair to arrive here Tuesday ADDIS ABABA (ENA/EH) - British Prime Minister, Tony Blair is scheduled to arrive in Addis Ababa, Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Commission on Africa scheduled to take place from 7-8 Oct. 2004, Associated Press (AP) reported. The 51-year-old Prime Minister established the Commission on Africa on February 28,2004 to take a renewed look at the challenges Africa faces and to generate increased support for the G8 Africa Action Plan. The first meeting of the Commission took place in London on 4 May 2004. The commissioners, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi then agreed on their work plan. Since the commissioners and members of the secretariat have been consulting widely with a wide range of stakeholders-including academia, parliamentarians, civil society, the development community and Diaspora groups. The commissioners will bring their ideas to Addis Ababa and work on them as a group. Their work in this second meeting will be the next step towards their final report and recommendations for action, to be published in spring 2005. Blair returned to Downing Street after a successful treatment to correct an irregular heartbeat at a hospital in west London on Friday, Xinhua reported quoting Sky News. According to the live television reports from the scene, Blair looked relaxed and smiled as he climbed out of his chauffeur-driven Jaguar and greeted the press. The Hammersmith Hospital said in a statement that the chance of his atria flutter returning was "very low". Blair was treated for "an irregular heartbeat due to atrial flutter (using) a planned procedure called radio frequency catheter ablation," said the hospital. "The procedure was successful in eliminating the atrial flutter. We consider the risk of refureence of the problem to be very low," it said. Blair first exhibited symptoms of an irregular heartbeat in October last year. The symptoms also reoccurred in August. He became the Prime Minister of Britain in 1997. ECA Executive Secretary urges journalists to fight against HIV/AIDS ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, K.Y. Amoako, called upon African journalists here Friday to actively participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS and focus on other major African issues. Responding to Questions posed by the journalists at the conclusion of a workshop on HIV/AIDS reporting, the Executive Secretary said a study conducted in 28 African countries by ECA shows that the role of African media is developing. "The good news is that in these countries, the role of the media, the emergence of private newspapers, the conduct in which news are reported is now making progress," he said. But, Amoako added that there are lots of things "to grapple with in terms of the role of the media in general." He said the media have to improve their performances in: "fairness issues, code of ethics, quality of reporting and the ability to see key issues and bring them to the attention of the people." The Executive Secretary said Africa is trying to rid itself of corruption and maladministration. So, he urged the journalists to make improvements in the dissemination of information. The Economic Commission for Africa and the Reuters Foundation organized the workshop, attended by 17 journalists drawn from Africa, Asia and Latin America. October 5, 2004 Houses commence 5th year tenure President says laws in the pipeline vital to enhance development, democratization endeavours by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis said the various proclamations expected to be enacted by the House of Peoples' Representatives this Ethiopian year would be instrumental in enhancing the ongoing development and democratization efforts in the country. Opening the joint session of the 5th year tenure of the Houses of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation yesterday, President Girma said the laws awaiting the approval of the Lower House would go along way in building execution capacity as well as promoting transparency and accountability in government institutions. Draft proclamations including the rural land administration and use; forest development, conservation and use' export meat licensing and organic agriculture system would have substantial contributions to the effective implementation of the rural development policy and to increasing the country's export earnings, the President said. The revised finance administration proclamation submitted to the House would enable to properly and effectively utilize public funds, he said adding that the proclamation would serve as a legal ground for other activities to be undertaken under the public expenditure reform subprogramme of the Civil Service Reform Programme. As regards boosting state revenues, President Girma said the amended proclamations of income tax and federal tax appeal council, among others, would help expedite the tax administration system thereby supporting the government's efforts to cover its recurrent and capital budget from local sources. The President also mentioned a number of legal frameworks in the pipeline in the areas of industrial and urban development. He said the proposal to re-establish the National Urban Planning Institute and the Design and Construction Supervisory Authority was part of these endeavours. The intended amendment of the Water Development Fund would help improve access to clean water, the President said, and expressed his conviction that the would-be established watershed development authority would come as a vital force in the efforts underway to ensure food self-sufficiency. President Girma also said that the draft press law, which, he said, had been extensively reviewed by local and international stakeholders, was expected to be approved by the House this year. The law would be critical inpromoting freedom of expression, which is enshrined, in the supreme law of the land, he added. He said a proclamation determining ways of entering into international agreements was also expected to be endorsed by the House in the stated period. The proclamation, he added, would help enhance Ethiopia's bilateral and multilateral relations and enable it to secure more development assistance. The revised proclamation of the licensing and registration of federal courts' lawyers, the proclamation for the expansion of youth sporting grounds as well as the documents registration proclamation and the advertisement proclamation and the advertisement proclamation were also among the laws expected to be enacted in the 1997 E.C., he said. The President has also stressed the need for making the legislative process more transparent through the active participation of the public, which, he said, would contribute considerably to intensifying the fight against poverty and backwardness. President Girma has also called upon the public to maximize their contribution in sustaining the encouraging results achieved in the areas of realizing rapid development and good governance as well as containing the spread of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The opening joint session of the two Houses has unanimously approved the minutes of the 4th year joint opening and first sessions. Addis set to make Johannesburg partnership fruitful, exemplary: Arkebe ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Addis Ababa City Government Mayor, Arkebe Equbay said that the City Government is committed to the success of Johannesburg Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAO) Programme. Arkebe said that his government is committed to make the Johannesburg and Addis Ababa partnership a fruitful and exemplary programme. Arkebe made the remark here while receiving a South African delegation led by Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo. Unemployment and limited access to decent shelter and other services were the two major challenges of the city, the mayor said, adding the city government has launched an integrated housing development programme to curb these problems. According to the Mayor, the housing development programme aims at constructing thousands of low-cost houses, creating employment opportunities and creation of an efficient and strong construction industry. The city has gained significant achievements in community participation and devolution of power to the kebele level, the lowest tier of government, he said. The city government in collaboration with the local communities has also been striving to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS, the mayor said. Arkebe said Addis Ababa would learn a lot from Johannesburg with regard to urban management, urban governance, and urban development through JAAP programme. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Mayor Masondo said the JAAP programme aims at forging cooperation between the two sisterly cities mainly on sustainable growth and development, empowerment of women, and experience sharing. "For instance", Masondo said, "Addis Ababa can learn a lot about Geographic Information System (GIS) from Johannesburg." He also said that the two sisterly cities could cement mutual cooperation to mitigate common problems like poverty, unemployment and rapid urbanization. Manager of the city of Johannesburg, Pascal Moloi said on his part the JAAP programme includes cooperation, among others, on strategic planning and management, quality service delivery, land and housing, finance and economic development as well as HIV/AIDS intervention activities. Addis Ababa City Manager Tesfa-Michael Nahusenay reiterated on the occasion the multifaceted development schemes of the city government with a view to upgrading the city. The 20-member delegation, which is here on four-day official visit, would have a series of discussions with senior government officials and also visit various development projects in the city. Addis Ababa and Johannesburg entered into partnership agreement in 2003. ==================================== pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2004 =========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 6 16:00:55 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041006140055.33630.qmail@web53306.mail.yahoo.com> October 6, 2004 Meles, German Parliamentary delegation discuss cooperation ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday held talks with members of the Economic and Development Cooperation Committee with the German Parliament. Meles told the German Parliamentary delegation led by Walter Riester that Ethiopia desires to see its cooperation with Germany to focus mainly on the area of technical and vocational training. Meles said the Ethio-German all-rounded cooperation has now been taken to a new height. He said the Government of Germany has greatly been assisting in the activities underway in Ethiopia to speed up sustainable development. Ethiopia is eager to share the enormous experiences of Germany in the fields of technical and skill training, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Meles as saying. Meles said Ethiopia would greatly benefit from technical and vocational training cooperation with Germany. After talks with Meles, Riester told journalists that the discussions held with the Prime Minister focused on ways of strengthening cooperation in the field of technical and vocational training. The visit by the German delegation aims mainly at looking into possible ways of further enhancing the cooperation between the two countries. Members of the delegation are scheduled to visit the activities of the Menschen fur Menschen in Harar today. Joint session passes resolutions on census, interest income tax House urges Oromia, Somali states to make successful plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA)- The House of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation have passed resolutions on issued pertinent to the Commission on Census and Interest Income Tax levying, collection and ownership. The two House passed the resolutions here yesterday during their joint session at the beginning of their 5th year term. The Houses endorsed the amended article to hold national census every ten years, and according to the results the House of the Federation shall decide the designation of constituencies according to the draft to be submitted by the National Electoral Board. However, the period for census may be prolonged in the event of problems beyond control, which the two Houses should prove in their joint meeting. According to the resolution, the Commission was expected to conduct a national census in 1997 E.C. in line with the Constitution's Article 103/5. However, as the schedule coincided with the upcoming national elections, the census is rescheduled for 1999 E.C. as there is a budgetary limitation to undertake both in a year. The two Houses, with no objection and six abstentions, endorsed the amendment. The two Houses also agreed that the Federal Government continue to be the body responsible for interest income tax levying, collection and ownership. Meanwhile, the joint session of the House of Peoples' Representatives and the Federation urged the Oromia and Somali states yesterday to make successful the plebiscite due to be held to determine the future status of the localities along the common borders of the two states. Members of the two Houses said the measures so far taken by the state and the Federal Governments to seek a peaceful solution to the problems along the borders of the two states were satisfactory. The peoples of the two states have expressed their desire to bring about sustainable economic development and facilitate ways for the establishment of good governance in their respective localities, Speaker of the House of the Federation Dr. Mulatu Teshome said. He said the plebiscite was believed to be instrumental in establishing durable peace along the common borders. He said it was entirely up to the people living along the common borders to determine their status by casting their ballots in a free and democratic manner. In another development, Speaker of the House of the Federation said yesterday that the House would be actively engaged in implementing the development policies and strategies designed to reduce poverty and bring about sustainable economic development. Dr. Mulatu Teshome said the House in its final term of office would also be involved in the establishment of democratic institutions and good governance. He said the House of the Federation is expected to pass various constitutional issues during its regular and special sessions this year. The House also decided in a unanimous vote that the people and housing census to be held in 1999 E.C. MPs say penal code improved in favour of women's children's rights ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Two members of the House of People's Representatives said that the improved penal code of the country has been prepared in the manner that upholds the rights of women and children. At a panel discussion held on the improved penal code and reproductive health rights jointly organized by Walta Information Centre (WIC) and Ipass International here yesterday, Chairman of the House's Legal Affairs Standing Committee, Asmelash Wolde-Sellassie said that the code ensures the rights of women and children as it has been improved in line with the constitution and international conventions that the country accepted. According to the Chairman, provisions that protect women and children from physical and psychological damages are included in the code. Provisions concerning abuse by family members, rape, circumcision, and abduction, which were not part of the previous penal code, are incorporated in the improved code, he said, adding that it also promulgates conditions of abortion. He said the code also punishes the trafficking of women and children as well as labour exploitation. Women's Affairs Standing Committee Chairperson, Genet Tadesse said, on her part that the government is taking steps in building the capacities of the judiciary besides providing legal framework for the rights of women and children. Participant said that through the improvement of the penal code has paramount importance in ensuring rights of women and children, attention should also be given to its implementation and the creation awareness among the rural people. Commission for Africa to meet here tomorrow ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Tony Blair's Commission for Africa is to meet tomorrow and Friday here in the Ethiopian capital, to discuss Africa's future. In their eyes, they feel the continent's main problems are regional conflicts, refugees, trade and corruption, according to a BBC news article posted on the Internet. The delegates plan to hear from Africans on these topics. President reaffirms gov't support to organization's humanitarian activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that the Ethiopian Government would provide the necessary support to the Lutheran Hour Ministries for its humanitarian activities in Ethiopia. During talks with Ministries' Interim Executive Director Donald Bennett, at the National Palace yesterday, the president said that the humanitarian activities contribute to the development endeavours in the country. "Your assisntace for the health sector would greatly contribute towards the efforts to improving health services," he said. The president also requested the Lutheran Hour Ministries to increase its assistance to Ethiopia. Briefing reporters following talks with the president, Bennett said that the Lutheran Hour Ministries have donated medical equipment to the Makalle, Axum and Humera hospitals. He said the Ministries have also donated over 18,000 packages of books, and magazines to Ethiopian school age children. Ministries African and Middle East Director Dr. Essayas Menkir said that the organization was established in Ethiopia 10 years back. According to him, the Ministries are engaged in the provision of humanitarian support to the needy and the health sector. The delegation was to leave for the US last night concluding its three-week visit here. Johannesburg Mayor stresses exploring more partnership areas Delegation visits dev't projects by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo, who is leading the South African delegation here on a three-day official visit, emphasized on the need for exploring more partnership areas to foster Johannesburg-Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAP) Programme. Following briefings the delegation received on Micro, Small-scale Enterprises (MSE) and visit to a model low-cost housing and neighborhood projects in different areas of the metropolis, the executive Mayor told the Herald that the two cities have a lot to learn from each other. "We have already have a sisterly agreement with Addis Ababa City Administration that sticks to address issues of poverty, economic development and cultural exchanges and specific attention is needed to ensure the transformation of this agreement into practice," Masondo said. After commending the progress made regarding cooperation, especially in relation to administration and information system, the Executive Mayor indicated urbanization and migration as the main problems of Addis Ababa which are in most cases similar to other cities, "Consolidating the good ideas shared would have a great importance in improving the quality of life of their residences," he added. Micro and Small Enterprises Development Manager with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Yohannes Solomon told the delegation that the City Administration is doing its level best to promoting this sector especially in construction, metal and woodwork, clothing, food processing and municipal activities. According to the manager, some 98,000 residents have benefited from the 44 million birr the City Administration provided in loan and aid last year. For this fiscal year, 250 million birr has already been allocated to benefit 150,000 people engaged in this sector, he said. After explaining the comparative advantage of the sector especially its labour intensive nature and the provision of products at an affordable prices, he indicated lack of capital, technological know-how and information as the main obstacles facing the enterprise. The delegates also visited the Bole/Gerji pilot low-cost housing project backed by the German Technical Cooperation, and 2.3 kms pavement roads and toilets constructed with community participation in Kebeles 01 and 19 of the Kirkos Sub-city at a cost of around 1.2 million birr. ======================== pol.Ethiopia Oct. 6, 2004 ================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 7 13:48:35 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041007114835.53003.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> Tony Blair arrives here Blair says Commission for Africa is about concrete actions to address Africa's problems by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Minister Tony Blair said the purpose of the Commission for Africa was to deal with in a comprehensive manner the fundamental problems besetting the continent and take concrete actions in partnership with Africans to address the problems. "The Commission's work is not simply to enlarge our understanding of Africa's problems but to pave the way for meaningful actions that will help get the problems resolved," said Mr. Blair in a press conference he gave along with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi at the National Palace later yesterday. Prime Minister Blair said Africa's problems related to debt, aid, trade, governance and conflict resolution need to be dealt with through the active involvement of Africans themselves and should be acted upon in a joint venture. "The Commission for Africa is a partnership arrangement in which we need to do certain things and African countries need to do certain things. It has to be a partnership between equals, no longer a relationship of donor and recipient," he said. Blair said that the Commission would not duplicate existing initiatives like NEPAD, which, he said, also promotes partnership. The Commission for Africa should support the NEPAD process by making sure that the developed world fulfils its commitments, he added. Prime Minister Meles on his part said that the establishment of the Commission would help the NEPAD process moves forward. "If I were to advise him [Blair] about how to most effectively support NEPAD, I would ask him to establish the Commission for Africa that he has already formed," Meles said. Prime Minister Blair reaffirmed his commitment to put Africa high on the agenda by next year when his country takes over the presidencies of both the European Union and the G8. "We have high hopes, and I believe that these hopes can be fulfilled, he added. Asked about the implementation process of the action plan expected to be produced by the Commission, Blair said he would take the document to the G8 Summit for endorsement. The African Union would also look into the proposal and forward its views, he added. "What I am concerned about here is not just coming up with such proposals but making sure that I am there all the way through its implementation," said Mr. Blair who personally took the initiative to establish the Commission. Prior to the press conference, Meles and Blair exchanged views on the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Britain as well as on other regional issues. Prime Minister Tony Blair arrived here later yesterday to attend the second meeting of Commission for Africa to be opened today. Prime Minister Meles and other senior government officials welcomed Blair upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Similarly, Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa, who is also one of the Commissioners, arrived here yesterday to attend the meeting. Meles and other officials welcomed President Mkapa. Meles calls for fairer trade to have fighting chance ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has called for fairer trade terms for Ethiopian in 'Doha trade round'. Meles told the BBC in an interview Tuesday that progress on the Doha round of trade negotiations would be uppermost in his mind. "Because in the long run, we can only trade our way out of poverty and the rules of the game are stacked against us. And we would like to see a fairer trading environment so that we can have a fighting chance. Asked when dependence on food aid would change, Meles said, "We are beginning to change that and we have a plan to completely overcome that problem within a period of three to five years. We have carried out one year of implementation of that programme and the performance has been quite good. We have had double digit growth of our economy last year. We expect similar growth this coming year. And if we could sustain that for two or three more years, we should be out of the woods." Meles said: "In the case of food aid, we are asking our partners not to give the farmers free food, but to make sure that people who can work for it, do work for it. And the food aid is used to ensure that these people do not come back to seek food aid at a latter stage." Asked if, in the interest of peace, it would not be better to agree with the ruling of the Boundary Commission, Meles said: "If this giving of land were to be a guarantee for peace, perhaps, but my argument is that if we are going to have completely unworkable boundary between Ethiopia and Eritrea, and I would divide a single house between two countries. I would suggest that such a boundary is a recipe for war." Some people are talking about war again this winter? Meles was asked, and answered, "If there is, it is not going to be started by Ethiopia. Ethiopia will never start another war with Eritrea. That is for sure." British Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday began a four-day visit to Africa to underline the developing world's concerns to find lasting solutions to the continent's problems especially on trade, aid and debt. After meeting officials in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, he would pray a central role in the British sponsored Commission for Africa, which is meeting in Ethiopia, the BBC said. House decides to hold plebiscite along Oromia, Somali common borders soon ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation decided to hold the plebiscite aimed at determining the status of the 463 localities along the common borders of the Oromia and Somali states soon. The House passed the decision during its session yesterday after holding talks jointly and separately with chief administrators of the two states. The chief administrations of the two states have reached an agreement to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. Previously, it was agreed to hold the plebiscite in 448 localities, according to the Speaker of the House of the Federation. He, however, said questions were forwarded by the states to include 15 localities in the plebiscite, adding that the chief administrators of the two states have agreed to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. The House passed the decision to include the 15 localities in the plebiscite after a thorough discussion with a majority vote. Of the 83 members of the House, three were against the motion. The House also decided the National Electoral Board would present the result for approval and the House would hold an extraordinary meeting. The House also decided the Speaker monitor the plebiscite process and presents a report back to the House on questions that may be raised by the people. Premier confers with Chadian Minister ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopia and Chad should work to consolidate their cooperation in the economy, training, transport and transfer of knowledge areas for the mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said yesterday. During talks held with the Chadian Minister of Public Works and Transportation Adoum Younousmi, the Prime Minister said it was the interest of Ethiopia to strengthen its economic relations with other African countries as well. Ethiopian has strong ties with many countries through the South-South Cooperation, he said adding that his country was keen to work with African countries in the sharing of experiences, as the problems affecting the livelihoods of the people in the continent are very much similar. Chad has shown interest to benefit from the training and maintenance section of the Ethiopian Airlines that has been flown to many African countries, according to an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the discussion. The Chadian Minister during his stay here was expected to visit various institutions in Ethiopia. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.7,2004 ============================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 8 15:21:47 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041008132147.82118.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 8, 2004 We cannot afford to stand by and watch Africa get left behind, says Blair by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Ministry Tony Blair said the developed world could not afford to stand by and watch Africa face the risk of being left behind as what happens in Africa also affects the rest of the world. "Armed with the evidence from the Commission for Africa about what Africa needs and what has held back progress in the past, I want to turn international attention on Africa into international action to help the continent beat poverty and end conflict," said Blair in his 'Africa Speech' delivered at the opening here yesterday of the second meeting of the Commission for Africa. Most Africa countries are still as poor as they were 40 years ago, the Prime Minister said, adding that in some countries life expectancy, having improved for many years, has fallen back to what it was in the 1950s as a result of AIDS. "Next year will be a year of decision for Africa and the rest of the world," Mr. Blair said referring to the time when UK will hold the G8 and EU presidencies and the completion of the Commission's document. "The price for failure will be disaster for Africa. The prize for success will be an Africa standing proud in its own right the international community." Prime Minister Blair also said that poverty and instability in the continent leads to weak states, which can become havens for terrorists and other criminals. They could go undisturbed by weak governments while they plan their next attack, he added. "The international community must allow African countries the space to determine their own paths to development agreed amongst their own people," he said. "Countries should not be forced to sign up to policies which they do not believe will work because a donor thinks they will," he added. Blair also underscored the need for donors to coordinate their development assistance. He mentioned the encouraging results witnessed in Mozambique where 14 donors and the World Bank were supporting common policies set by the government and agreed with donors. The Prime Minister further indicated that the African Union was already showing how important it would be, particularly on governance and security issues. He also expressed support for the Peer Review Mechanism of NEPAD for which 23 sub-Saharan African countries have singed so far. HIV/AIDS has already been undoing much of the progress that has been made in combating poverty in Africa in the last 20 years, he said and added, "If we can help Africa to stop progressing undone by disease and conflict, Africa grows. But in order to achieve the MDGs in Africa by 2015, progress needs to be much faster." Prime Minister Blair also said that the UK has more than doubled its aid budget to Africa since 1997 and would reach the UN target of 0.7 per cent GDP contribution in 2013. Britain would increase aid directly for Africa to one billion Pound Sterling next year, he indicated. In a press conference Mr. Blair, Prime Minister Meles and two other commissioners gave later in the afternoon, they disclosed that they had dwelt at length the work done so far since the first meeting in the areas of governance, peace and security, aid, education and culture, among others. Meles described the commissioners' closed session meeting as very fruitful, which, he said, were helpful for future undertakings. "The discussion was held in a spirit of partnership rather than in the donor-recipient manner," he added. Prime Minister Blair also commended Ethiopia's development and democratization efforts saying that there was now much progress as compared to what it had been some years back. Asked about donors' response to Ethiopia's food security programme, Meles said the programme has based itself on the abundant labour and resources the country has not just donor assistance. "We believe that we can ensure food security with or without donors. Donor assistance is supplementary that would help expedite the overall progress of the programme," Meles said. The Commission for Africa will continue its session today in open debate sessions with the African civil society. The commissioners will have the opportunity to discuss their work directly with the civil society particularly with women and young Africans. Earlier on the day, Prime Minister Blair visited the Eyerusalem Children's and Community Development Organization at Debre Zeit town, about 42 km east of Addis, where he met people living with HIV/AIDS, orphans and visited other projects of the organization. Blair expressed his government's support to community based HIV/AIDS prevention activities. Meanwhile, Mayor of the Addis Ababa City Administration, Arkebe Equbai presented the city's key to Blair in ceremony held at AU Headquarters. Blair thanked for the gift and the hospitality he has been accorded with in his stay here. Prime Minister Tony Blair left for London later yesterday. Prime Minister Meles and other officials saw off Blair at Bole International Airport. House decides budgetary subsidy bill be submitted at its second regular session Afar, Somali states appeal for more seats ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation has decided that the draft on budgetary subsidy for states be submitted at its second regular session. It has endorsed its 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. The House decided the 1997 E.C. budgetary subsidy allocations to be enforced as per the amended formula of the 1996 E.C. as the new budgetary subsidy bill has not been enforced in line with the timetable. It said, failure to submit the new budgetary subsidy formula in the House's second session would create difficulty in budgetary subsidy allocations for the year 1998 E.C. The House concluded its first 1997 E.C. regular session after endorsing the 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. Meanwhile, representatives of the Afar and Somali states told the House of the Federation yesterday that their representations to the seat of the Federal Parliament are incommensurate with the total population of the two states. They said the National Electoral Board used the census of the 1976 E.C. as its benchmark for deciding the constituencies instead of the census of 1987 E.C. The decision of the board to use the census of 1976 was illegal and inconsistent with the provision stipulated in the Constitution, they said. The House decided the National Electoral Board to come up with sufficient and convincing answers for the questions raised by the two states to its next extraordinary session due to be held soon. Meles inaugurates international leather trade fair ADDIS ABABA becomes AFLI seat by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday inaugurated a leather and leather products trade fair that brought 269 exhibitors from Africa and other international companies at the UN/ECA compound. Meles visited several stalls where wet blue hides and skin, finished and semi-finished leather, raw materials, chemicals materials, components, accessories and finished products are being exhibited. The three-day trade fair targeted manufacturers of foot wear, leather goods, clothing, luggage, accessories and other items, machinery and chemical buyers and tanners as well as buyers of finished products. Some 89 from the host country, 125 African and 55 international exhibitors took part in the trade fair. Meanwhile, the African Federation of Leather Allied Industries (AFLAI) Board members decided that Addis be its seat. Ethiopian Tanners, Footwear and Leather Garments Manufacturers Association Board Chairman, Bedada Chali, told journalists that for Ethiopia is the number one skin producer in Africa, and its capital the headquarters of AU, UN/ECA and the regional offices of many UN agencies, AFLI Board members where convinced to reach at the decision. AFLI is the largest institution representing professionals in the African leather trade and allied industries established to facilitate technology and market, organize trade fairs and training sessions, optimize the setting up of joint ventures and partnership between companies, it was learnt. President meets Action Aid Chief Executive, UNDP Resident Coordinator ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis yesterday met Chief Executive of Action Aid International Ramesh Singh and Action Aid Goodwill Ambassador Emma Thompson. Thompson, a celebrated actress with Oscar-winning mid 1990s work in such films as Howards End and Sense and Sensibility, has been on a ten-day working visit to Ethiopia since 3 October 2004. President Girma briefed singh and Thompson about the activities the government has been implementing to change the lives of the people for the better in the political, economy and social sectors. Girma also briefed the visitors on the efforts the government has exerted over the past years in the expansion of infrastructure facilities, including electric power supply, according to an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting. President Girma commended the development interventions Action Aid has launched in ten states in Ethiopia, and called on the organization to strengthen its development support. Singh on the occasion assured the President of Action Aid's commitment to enhance its interventions in environmental protection, HIV/AIDS and food security. Thompson took the occasion to exchange views with the President about the measures that need to be taken to curb the impact that entailed coffee price deflation. Looking at the coffee price impact on households in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State was one of the purposes of Thompson's visit. Action Aid will move ahead by integrating its development interventions with gender-friendly activities Thompson said. Thompson is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on 9 October, according to a press release Action Aid had sent to ENA earlier. "…The visit is expected to give her (Emma Thompson) better understanding of the poverty situation and the level of response in the country as well as Action Aid Ethiopia's contribution towards addressing the issue. "This would help her to carry her observation for wider audiences," the release said. Meanwhile, President Girma has called on the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance its support for Ethiopia in the areas of poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS and environmental protection. President Girma made the call yesterday during an audience with UNDP Resident Coordinator Modibo Toure. Girma called on Toure to exert efforts toward the enhancement of UNDP's project in Ethiopia. The activities UNDP has been carrying out in the area of support in food security and employment generation should be intensified through consultations with beneficiary communities, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting quoted Girma as saying. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.8,2004 ======================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 14 11:17:51 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041014091751.62773.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 12, 2004 4th African Development Forum opens Forum puts good governance at centre of development by Getachew Dibaba ADDIS ABABA - Good governance is a prerequisite and critical condition to put Africa on the path of development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. "Without good governance and the full respect of the democratic rights of citizens and all sectors of the society, it would be impossible to put in place conditions for durable peace and stability," Meles said. The Premier made the remark here yesterday at the opening of the 4th African Development Forum, which is being held at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) under the theme 'Governance for a Progressing Africa.' Political history of the continent clearly demonstrated that without durable peace and stability, there could be no development to speak of, Meles said. Executive Secretary of ECA, K.Y. Amoako, on his part reiterated that improvements in governance, human rights, peace and security are the necessary preconditions for sustainable human development in Africa. "Good governance promotes economic efficiency through equitable rules, by promoting fair and well-functioning markets. It curtails corruption and ensures the fair delivery of services," he said. The Executive Secretary also pointed out the crucial role of good governance in ensuring the participation of every sector of the society, coping with the challenges of HIV/AIDS and fostering investment. Amoako further stressed the need for the existence of highly active and progressive states to address multifarious problems of the continent. "As we seek effective ways to meet our challenges, we are consistently drawn back to one major focus: the need for capable state," he said. Expressing concern over Africa's fragile economic performance, which is well below what is required to meet the Millennium Development Goals, he underlined the paramount importance of placing good governance high on the agenda of development." There is a fear that the gains of recent years could slip back, and that further gains could be jeopardized," he said. Amoako also urged the African states to create an enabling environment for the active participation of the youth who make up half of Africa's unemployed while dealing with economic reform and national policies. The Executive Secretary also lauded the commitment of African countries to good governance for they show increasing interest to involve in the African Peer Review Mechanism, which is designed to review countries' performance on governance issue. "Twenty-three countries, representing 75 per cent of African population, have agreed to take part in the process," he indicated. Recalling NEPAD's Democracy and Governance Initiative, which is based on the premise that development is impossible in the absence of true democracy, respect for human rights, peace and good governance, he called for the commitment of African countries for the success through involving public and private sector stakeholders and ensuring transparency and accountability. Citing ECA's groundbreaking 28-country study on "measuring and Monitoring Progress towards Good Governance," the Executive Secretary on the occasion revealed that governance is getting better in the continent. "The situation across the continent is markedly different from just a decade ago. People believe that their political peace is being liberalized. They tell us that human rights and the rule of law are more widely respected and that the media and civil society are advancing. Women's participation in the political process has increased markedly in several countries," he said. He, however, pointed out that important areas need to be strengthened to further improve good governance. According to Amoako, parliamentary capacity, legal and judicial reforms, public sector management, credible and responsible media and the environment for the private sector, among others, are areas that show capacity deficits, even in countries making good progress. The five-day forum would examine and debate ways of improving governance in Africa today. Meanwhile, an exhibition displaying activities of about 50 local and international organizations was opened at the ECA yesterday. October 13, 2004 Global Fund makes 640 mln. USD support to Ethiopia ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Director-General of the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria said the Fund has made a 640 million USD support to Ethiopia. The Director-General, Professor Ricahrd Feachem made the remark while conferring with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi here yesterday. He also told journalists after the talks that the stated amount of money would be used for the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria in the next five years. He said Ethiopia is given priority among the 130 countries in the world in which the Global Fund has launched prevention activities against the stated diseases. The Director-General has also assured Meles that the Fund's assistance towards the prevention of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria would continue in the years ahead. Feachem said priority should be given to the effective and appropriate utilization of the stated amount of money for intended programmes. Meles assured Feachem on his part that the fund would be used immediately and appropriately for the programmes launched against HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria. UNAIDS Director-General Peter Piot who also held separate talks with Prime Minister Meles yesterday, said that the encouraging achievements gained in containing the spread of HIV/AIDS in Addis Ababa should further (Global P.7 President awarded UNAIDS' Medal ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis was awarded a UNAIDS' Medal for his outstanding contribution made in the fight against HIV/AIDS. UNAIDS Director General Peter Piot handed out the medal at a special ceremony held here yesterday at the UN Conference Centre (UNCC). Speaking on the occasion Piot expressed appreciation to the personal efforts of President Girma to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country. He also assured the President that UNAIDS' support to Ethiopia would further be strengthened in the years ahead to enable it contain the spread of HIV/AIDS. President Girma said on his part he would continue and strengthen his personal efforts toward the prevention and control of the pandemic. He also mentioned that the government has been implementing an HIV/AIDS intervention activity to prevent the spread of the infection. President Girma said HIV/AIDS was on corporated in the country's health extension package, which is being implemented at the grass roots level. Priority has been given to HIV/AIDS prevention activities by religious organizations and society at large, he said. World Bank Vice-President commends Ethiopia's strive to meeting MDGs by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President of the World Bank, Francois Bourguignon, said that Ethiopia is accomplishing commendable jobs to meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and remarkable achievements have been registered in different areas that put the country one in the top list in the developing countries. Briefing local journalists and foreign correspondents at Sheraton Addis yesterday, the chief economist indicated that given the right amount of aid from donor countries and good management of debt, the country for sure could meet the MDGs. Ethiopia is undertaking promising activities especially in the areas of governance, education, health, rural development and sanitation among others, he said, and went on to state that the World Bank would do its level best in the deepening of the scaling up process of the activities so as to accelerate the development and attain the MDG by the year 2015. He also underscored the need for improving the country's communication sector, banking system and tax administration to attract more investors and meet the needs of the society. Information obtained on the occasion also indicated that the Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) finalized in July 2002 aims at broad institution and structural reform to speed up the pace of growth, to distribute the gains to poor people and also accelerate progress towards meeting the MDGs. According to a development progress paper, Ethiopia has embarked on an impressive reform and development, though much more needs to be done in attaining the MDGs. Likewise, gross school enrollment increased from 33 per cent in 1990 to over 64 per cent in 20000, total adult literacy rose from 28 per cent in 1990 to 40 per cent in 2001 and total youth literacy increased from 42 per cent in 1990 to 56 per cent in 2001. In addition, GDP per capita grew an average 5.6 per decreased from 128 per 1000 in 1990 to 116 in 2002. The World Bank's Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for Ethiopia, covering FY 2003-05, which is based on the governments SDPRP, focuses on human development outcomes, enhancing pro-poor growth and reducing vulnerability, the paper added. October 14, 2004 Meles meets His Royal Osei II of Ashante Leaves for Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday met His Royal Majesty Opumfuo Osei II of Ashante Ghana. The Discussions between the two parties centered on ways of strengthening the South-South Cooperation. Prime Minister Meles and His Royal Majesty Osei recognized the amicable long standing relations between Ethiopia and Ghana. They said it would be beneficial for the two countries to enhance cooperation in the economy and cultural fields, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His Royal Majesty Osei is here to attend the Africa Development Forum IV (ADF IV). He presented a paper on traditional governance at the Forum. Meanwhile, a high level Ethiopian delegation led by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi left for Budapest, Hungary yesterday to attend the meeting of progressive governance. Upon departure at the Bole International Airport, senior government officials saw off the Prime Minister. The Budapest meeting was the continuation of that was held in London, England. Residents register for plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Office of the National Electoral Board said that voter registration for the plebiscite to determine the status of the disputed localities along the common borders of Oromia and Somali states is in progress. Office Deputy Head Teasfaye Megesha told ENA yesterday that people in the 641 localities, where the plebiscite would be held, have been registered in a remarkable turnout. He, however, said some kebele and woreda officials were not cooperative and even failed to provide leadership as expected. A joint committee for the purpose has enabled to address some of the problems identified in the process of voter registration, he said. ============================ Pol.ethiopia Oct.14,2004 ================= __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 15 14:30:31 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041015123031.89443.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 15, 2004 President elect Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed, Somalis can count on support of Ethiopia: Meles ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The inauguration of Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed as President of Somalia heralds a new beginning of national reconciliation is Somalia and the end of Somalis statelessness, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. Reading out the message of Prime Minister Meles at the inauguration of the new President yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya, Foreign Minister Seyoum said the occasion was a major landmark and a turning point in the history of the people of the sub region. We have always known that durable peace and stability in the region had to wait the rebirth of the Somalia State, Meles said in his message. The countries of the region have managed at last to stand behind the people of Somalia in unison in full solidarity. Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed is a person who has proved to be formidable… He is a Somali patriot who has always stood for principles never flinching no matter how difficult the challenges, he said. He said, I am extremely proud to have had with this proud son of the people of Somalia an enduring friendship based on a clear understanding of the mutual interests of our peoples and that of the peoples of our sub region. He said, as the new government would begin everything from ground zero, the support of the international community is imperative. The support becomes indispensable not only in the interest of Somalia, it is also in the vital interest of the whole international community that Somalia is regenerated and the rule of law is restored in the country and that Somalia joins the community if nations with all state institutions put in place, he said. The Prime Minister said our friend President Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed and the people of Somalia can always count on Ethiopia to stand with them shoulder-to-shoulder as they proceed to lift the Somali State from the ashes. Meles also urged the United Nations, the African Union and the League of the Arab States and other organizations to do whatever is possible to ensure that the new government is installed in Mogadishu as speedily as possible. Progressive Governance meeting opens in Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance meeting in which several leaders from various countries in the world including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is attending opened yesterday evening in Balaton, Hungary. The two-day meeting, which is being held in closed session, is expected to deliberate on Europe's future progressive politics, among others. The meeting is also expected to deliberate on the challenges and aspirations of progressive politics with the aim of exchanging ideas, experiences, and best practices that will help in the development of progressive solutions towards the problems experienced worldwide. Hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyursany, the meeting is being attended by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, South African President Thabo Mbeki and leaders of several other countries. Some 150 leaders from around the world, policy makers and politicians are also in attendance at the meeting. State Minister says capital goods leasing is an alternative financial instrument by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA - State Minister of Trade and Industry said that international experience indicates that Capital Goods Leasing is used in many parts of the world as an alternative financial instrument to minimize problems in the sector, particularly to satisfying investment requirement. Opening a half-day International Finance Corporation (IFC) Seminar on Leasing in Ethiopia at Sheraton Addis yesterday, Tadesse Haile said that recognizing the significance of the industrial sector in general and the manufacturing sector in particular, the Government of Ethiopia has adopted an Industrial Development Strategy which considers the prime importance of the private sector as an engine of growth. The State Minister added that the government is exerting every possible effort to create favourable environment for the private sector in line with the strategy. He further indicated that the development of the sector in this country was facing various problems access to both short and long-term financing being one of the major constraints. According to him, the Government of Ethiopia promulgated Capital Goods Leasing Business Proclamation No. 130/1998 and the associated directives since 1997. Realizing the slow development of the leasing industry, his ministry development has initiated a study to look into the proclamation and directives. A press release obtained from IFC indicates that leasing, as a financial tool, can play a significant role in economic growth fostering advance in production and broadening spectrum in the financial market. It provides medium-term to long-term financing which is vital to investments, according to the release. The release also said that successful leasing promotion requires constructive partnerships among governmental local commercial institutions and international organizations. Officials of IFC said that the mission of the Corporation is to promote sustainable private sector investment in developing countries, helping to reduce poverty and improve peoples' lives. They also said IFC finances private sector investment in the developing world, mobilize capital in the international financial market, and provides technical assistance and advice to governments and businesses. The seminar was attended by the government, local financial institutions, the business community, insurance companies, consulting companies and business support institutions. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.15,2004 =========================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Express yourself with Y! Messenger! Free. Download now. http://messenger.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 19 11:04:27 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041019090427.72436.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 16, 2004 Swedish Ambassador lauds Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme Diplomatic ties golden jubilee to be marked Oct. 19 by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson has commended Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme reaffirming his government's readiness to further increase its assistance. Briefing journalists in connection with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties at the embassy yesterday, the ambassador appreciated Ethiopia's commitment to combating poverty and ensure food security. "Last year, Ethiopia and Sweden signed a new development cooperation agreement where we our doubling are development where we our doubling are development cooperation to Ethiopia. We did it because we trust the Ethiopian Government and its ability to further open up the country politically and economically. We did it because we know that the Ethiopian Government takes its task of combating poverty very seriously and has very good poverty reduction programme that we base our cooperation on," the ambassador said. As to the ambassador, Ethiopia also has a very dynamic civil society that would really bring about a real difference for the poor with the support of the international community. His government, according to the ambassador is working with Ethiopia in the areas of education, health, rural development, humanitarian assistance, forestry, human rights and democracy, private sector development, justice sector reform as well as research cooperation among others. Marking the Golden Jubilee of the diplomatic ties between the two countries, a seminar on education, a photo exhibition as well as buffet-reception with Daniel Lemma (Ethiopian born Swedish) and the Cherry Bombs, a Swedish jazz band would take place in Addis Ababa on October 19,2004. The first ever Swedish development cooperation agreement with any country in the world was signed with Ethiopia in 1954 aimed at establishing the Building College in Addis Ababa. Sweden has allocated 500 million birr for this year of which 120 million would go for direct budgetary support, he said. Ambassador further indicated that Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia over the past 50 years is estimated to reach 13 billion birr. UN Humanitarian Envoy to arrive here today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - UN Humanitarian Envoy Martti Ahtisaari will make a three-day visit to Ethiopia to review progress in breaking the cycle of hunger and poverty, AFP said quoting the United Nations Thursday. It said the former Finnish president will be making his fourth trip to Ethiopia since his designation in June 2003 as the Special Envoy of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan concerned with the humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa. Ahtisaari, who will arrive today, will review the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia and measures taken by the government and relief agencies to break the cycle of hunger and poverty. He would meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, government officials, humanitarian agencies and international donors representatives. The number of people relying on emergency food assistance now stands at 7.8 million, and almost 1.2 million tonnes of emergency food and non-food assistance valued at 85 million dollars is needed overall for Ethiopia this year, it said. A report of the Joint Evaluation of the Response to the 2002-2003 Emergency in Ethiopia is to be released to next Monday, according to AFP. African countries urged to institute, strengthen affirmative action policies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Participants of the 7th African Regional Conference on Women said African countries should institute and strengthen affirmative action policies and programmes aimed at increasing women's and girl's access and retention in order to address gender imbalances in education and training. They said the affirmative action may include scholarship at all levels for female students, distance and non-formal education and literacy programmes for women, innovative and aggressive strategies to redress the under representation of women and girls in the sciences. In a statement they issued at the conclusion of the meeting here Thursday, the participants said in order to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other targets on reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, governments in collaboration with NGOs and the private sector should provide accessible sexual and reproductive health care services and education for women and girls. The statement said given the importance of communication and speed, with which information and communication technology (ICT) evolves, it is important that the region adopt and implement gender-aware media policies. It also said African governments should adopt gender-responsive policies, programmes, strategies and measures on environment. Success of creating conducive investment climate depends on ensuring good governance: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Ministry of Information said in its weekly statement issued yesterday, that the activities of countries to harness their natural resources to the benefit of their citizens are expanding and acquiring momentum. Most countries are engaged in fierce competition to maximize their share from the global investment flow, the statement said. Accordingly, it is important for the nation to exert maximum effort to attract investors, who engage in various activities to develop the untapped resources in our country, the statement added. According to the statement, it is true that tremendous measures have been taken to promote investment since the adoption of the free market economic system in the country. The provision of Civil Service Reform Programme (CSRP), the designation of plots of land for investment activities in urban and rural areas, are the major steps taken to ensure fundamental changes in the country, the statement underlined. As a result, such an effort was confirmed by the World Investment Report of the United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) launched in Addis Ababa on Sep.4 2004, which has rated our country as one of the countries that have created ideal investment environments in the world, the statement said. October 17, 2004 Progressive Governance Summit concludes issuing joint communiqué ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance Summit attended by 14 heads of state and government in Budapest, Hungary, including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi concluded its two-day session Friday issuing a joint communiqué. The participants of the summit declared in their communiqué to promote openness, tolerance, mutual respect, inclusion and solidarity. They stated their resolve to advance progressive polices within the global and regional institutions and pledged to honour the commitments made in the institutions and to encourage others to do the same. An open and fair-rules based on global economic and trade system can assist everyone to benefit from globalization, supported by regional and international cooperation, they said. "We encourage international financial institutions to become even more responsive to the imperatives of poverty reduction, social stability and to ease the burden of heavily indebted poor countries and economies in the transition." They also agreed to examine the reasons behind the failure to meet some of the development goals set and reinforce those of the Monterrey Consensus to promote national and global economic system based on the principles of justice, equity, democracy, participation, transparency, accountability and inclusion. The participants of the summit welcomed the recent initiatives of the United Nations to fight hunger and poverty. With regard to globalization, the participants said they pledged to ensure all their citizens to have access to decent and stable employment by providing an economic environment that supports job creations. "Progressive governments understand that the fruits of growth must generate the wealth necessary for investment in human capital, social mobility and cohesion." They said it was important for the progressives to empower the individual to take more control of their own lives-fighting poverty, expanding opportunity, social mobility, personal responsibility and developing power closer to citizens. A comprehensive approach including bordering development aid facilitating access to markets, creating an enabling environment for companies and promoting good governance is indispensable for sustainable development and would strengthen international cohesion as well as social development. Progressive governments condemn terrorism in all its forms and support international efforts to combat its existence and spread, they said. They said multiple threats including international terrorism, regional conflicts, and proliferations of weapons of mass destructions, environmental degradation and the pandemics like HIV/AIDS impact on all the countries. The participants of the summit also looked into the situation of Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Middle East, Haiti, Sudan and the Korean peninsula. At the invitation of the South African President, the leaders agreed to hold the next progressive governance summit in that country. Meanwhile, at the end of the summit Prime Minister Meles Zenawi told a press conference that developed countries should deliver the pledges they made to support the development endeavours of the poor countries. He said the support of the international community was vital for the developing countries to reduce poverty and seeped up development endeavours. The Prime Minister said developing countries should take concrete steps that could facilitate ways for development, debt concellation, trade and attract the flow of foreign investment, among others. During his stay in Hungary, Prime Minister Meles met and held discussions with his Hungarian counterpart on ways of consolidating the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The delegation led by the Prime Minister Meles returned home late Friday night. Meles, Wolfensohn visit farmers' lentil production activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and World Bank President James Wolfensohn yesterday visited the activities of the farmers engaged in lentil production in Gimbichu Woreda of East Shoa Zone, Oromia State. Briefing the high profile visitors, representatives of the farmers said lentil production, which they have engaged in through the extension programme using improved technologies, is already paying off. They said the yield per hectare has been going up since they have begun employing frost-resistant seeds and receiving support from the development agents (DAs) the government has deployed in support of their lentil production activities. Our lentil crops used to shrivel frequently by frost, they said recalling the hard times they endured through before the launching of the extension programme. Accordingly, the yield per hectare now grows to 20 quintals from 15 or less previously, they indicated. They told Meles and Wolfensohn that their lives have steadily been improving with the farmers replacing thatched huts with more comfortable houses. According to the farmers, through their lentil production activities, many others have been getting access to employments at the increasing number of lentil processing mills. They said they would not have reached this level without the support of the government. During the visit, discussion was held with Gimbichu cabinet members about the 1996 E.C. performance and future plans. One of the good security strategies of the Ethiopian Government has been providing support to household farmers to engage in the production of marketable agricultural items, including horticultural products, apiary, and dairy products, among others. October 19, 2004 Ethiopian Embassy working to attract investment, trade ADDIS ABABA (ENA) Ethiopian Ambassador to five European countries said her embassy has attached priority attention to the enhancement of trade and investment cooperation with Eastern European countries. Ambassador Halima Mohammed, who is accredited as Ethiopian Ambassador to Austria, Hungary, Romania, Slovak and Bulgaria told journalists in Budapest last week that her embassy, based in Vienna, will pay attention to attracting investors from Eastern European countries to Ethiopia. The embassy earlier had been preoccupied with the task of forging cooperation with UN agencies and other international organizations based in Vienna, she said. The chief activity of the embassy now is attracting trade and investment to Ethiopia and finding markets to Ethiopia's exports to Europe, she said. In its endeavours to promote the image of Ethiopia and to attract investors, the embassy would join hands with Ethiopians residing in Eastern Europe, she indicated. She said it was through the efforts of the Ethiopians there that MATADOR, a Slovak Company, has been able to forge joint venture with Addis Tyre Factory. She said investors of Eastern European countries have shown interest to invest in Ethiopia, adding Austrian companies have already entered Ethiopia with joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts. Activities have been launched to enable investors from Eastern Europe to engage in coffee and leather and leather product investments, among others, according to Ambassador Halima. Meanwhile, she said, the number of tourists who are coming to Ethiopia from Eastern European countries was steadily increasing owing to promotional activities. She said more than 20 tourism operators from Austria have entered Ethiopia. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.19,2004 ======================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 20 13:11:18 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041020111118.90246.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 20, 2004 Ethiopia, China sign 10.5 mln. birr grant accord as 6th Joint Commission Session concludes President confers with Chinese Deputy Minister of Trade by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopia and China yesterday signed a 10.5 million birr grant agreement and expressed their commitment to further consolidate their trade relation and bilateral cooperation while reviewing projects being implemented here by the latter. The agreement, singed by State Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr, Mulu Ketsela, and Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce Liao Xiaoqi, will be used to finance project costs that would be jointly identified by the two sides. Opening the sixth Ethio-China Joint Commission Session earlier in the day, Dr. Mulu indicated that over the last decade, the trade balance had been entirely in favour of China while Ethiopian export items were limited to agricultural products. "The current bilateral trade relation is encouraging, since a gradual progress in raising the quantity of Ethiopia's export products to China is being made; albeit at a very limited market share for Ethiopia's export." Dr. Mulu said. She also indicated that within the last two years several improvements have been made to make the investment climate more enabling. The number of sectors where investment was restricted to Ethiopians only has now been reduced and the time to set up and register a business has been decreased from months to hours thanks to the reform measures the Investment Commission effected, Dr. Mulu said. Moreover, she said an investment fund for exporters has been set up and the government is making land available for investors with the establishment of industrial zones. The Joint Commission session, among others, discussed the performances of China-implemented projects. The Chinese Vice minister and his delegation indicated during the meeting that they want to further intensify their relation especially in vocational training. They also expressed their strong desire to engage in Ethiopia's telecommunications sector where a competent company would apply for the bidding. The Chinese delegation also said that Chinese companies would further work very hard to increase their efficiency and competence to win high confidence from the Ethiopian side. Different exchange of notes to conduct studies in the areas of road construction, industry and mineral resources; and an agreed minutes which stipulate the mutual understanding reached during the session were also signed. Meanwhile, President Girma Wolde-Giorgis has called on Chinese investors to engage in agriculture and textile investment sectors here ENA, reported. During talks here yesterday with the visiting Chinese Deputy Trade Minister Liao Xiaoqi, President Girma said such cooperation would further strengthen the economic cooperation between Ethiopia and China. Girma said there are a wide range of opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade and investment sectors. The relations between Ethiopia and China have been taken to a new height, he said, adding the agreements signed between the two countries same day will further cement the cooperation between the two countries. He called on Chinese investors to establish agricultural, textile and industrial investments in Ethiopia on their own or in joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts, which he said would be greatly beneficial to both countries. He also called on the Government of China to enhance its support in the area of human resource development through training. Xiaoqi on his part said he has held constructive discussions with officials of the Ethiopian Government on issues pertinent to the enhancement of cooperation between the two countries. A Foreign Ministry Official who attended the meeting quoted Xiaoqi as saying that the visit made him well aware of the availability of wide opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade, investment and other sectors of the economy. Evaluation report commends effort launched to overcome 2002-03 drought ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The efforts exerted by the government and various humanitarian organizations to save the lives of 13 million people exposed to drought during the 2002/2003 were productive, according to a report. Evaluation of the response to the 2002-03 emergency report launched in the presence of the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan special envoy for humanitarian crisis on the Horn of Africa Martti Ahtisaary and Commissioner Simon Mechale said it had been possible to provide over 1.5 million metric tons of relief to the affected people. The government, donor organizations, the UN specialized agencies, NGOs and international community have worked in close cooperation and consolations to help victims of the natural disaster. It said donors have also provided in donation non-food assistance to the people during the reported period. The Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission (DPPC) had used private transport enterprises to transport the relief from the port of Djibouti. The commission also established over 1,200 distribution centres to provide the much needed relief assistance to the needy. Some 46 therapeutic feeding centres were also established in the areas seriously affected by the drought to provide relief assistance to the over 20,000 children, according to the report. The report also suggested that it was imperative to keep in reserve a huge quantity of grain and seek ways to consolidate the financial capacity of the DDPC with a view to overcoming future disasters. EAL needs to pursue reform: CEO ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines has indicated the need for the national carrier to pursue reform with a view to maintaining its competitiveness in the international aviation industry. Girma Wake made the remark here at Sheraton Addis yesterday at a meeting held to assess a study on Ethiopian's future operations. Ethiopian is exerting efforts to introduce new working systems geared toward enhancing its competitiveness in the aviation industry. He said competition in the aviation industry has come to be tougher with the rising fuel cost in the international market. Ethiopian, thus, need to pursue reforms that would enable it remains competitive in the aviation industry, which is becoming increasingly tougher. He said the 2003/2004 profit the Airlines made would not augur profitability now that the road to competitiveness is getting rough. EAL board members, including Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin attended the meeting. Ethiopian during 2003/2004 netted 31.7 million US dollar from air transport services. NEB offers training for coordinators of upcoming elections ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The National Electoral Board (NEB) offered a day-long training here yesterday to coordinators of the 2005 national and state elections. Candidates will begin electioneering beginning November, NEB Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha said. Voting will be conducted on 15 May 2005. NEB has made the necessary preparations in the process of elections, h said, adding that endorsement signature forms and other information will be made handy for private and party candidates. According to the timetable made public by the Board, candidates will be receiving endorsement signature forms at next-door education offices from 30 October 2004 to 6 January 2005. The coordinators will deliver the endorsement signature forms and other materials to the education offices in their respective constituencies, he indicated. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.20,2004 ========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 22 13:53:42 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041022115342.17666.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> October 21, 2004 Results achieved in enhancing women's educational participation said promising by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Education, Minister says Genet Zewdie that results achieved both in enhancing women's participation in education and to increasing their enrolment were promising. Opening the 4th Forum for Women's Education at the conference hall of the ministry yesterday, the minister indicated that in addition to the 4.4 per cent gross enrolment increase above the set target for the 1997 academic year, the gap between the two sexes in primary education has declined to 18 per cent. Accordingly the gross enrolment for both sexes has now reached 68.4 per cent surpassing the planned 64 per cent by the end of this academic year. Though the primary education is characterized by overage students problem, the net enrolment for the age groups 7-15 has reached 57 per cent out of which 51.8 per cent are women, she said. A five-year special curriculum has been designed to address the problem involving four million overage children throughout the country, the minister added. According to W/ro Genet, there is a plan to increase women's primary education enrolment to 80 per cent within five years, which would create a fertile ground mainly in transforming the agricultural sector and empowering and making them ready for short-term trainings. The enrolment of women has also reached 48 per cent in vocational and skill training centres and 29 per cent in higher institutions. Lauding the role of such forms, the minister also stressed on the need for the active participation of pertinent bodies and the society at large in addressing socio-economic problems hindering women's participation. The forum would assess the five year (1997-2002 E.C.) strategic plan of all states aimed at enhancing women's educational participation and also design a national implementation strategy for the same period. Over 300 women representing state women's affair, higher institutions, teachers and other women's associations are in attendance at the three-day forum. AU military chiefs discuss boosting Sudan force ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - African military officers discussed the details of a plan to expand an African Union peacekeeping force in Sudan's Darfur region Monday, hoping to provide a more effective mission to monitor cease-fire breaches. A working paper circulated by AU officials at a meeting in the Ethiopian capital acknowledged that the current mission of 150 cease-fire monitors and 300 AU troops was too small to provide effective cover of a region the size of France. The paper, obtained by Reuters, proposed boosting the force by around 3,300 staff, comprised of 2,341 military personnel, 815 civilian police, 132 other civilian support staff and 32 staff to be stationed at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. "The threat of raids and looting of villages remain significant. The number of civilians leaving their villages for the safety of IDP (Internally displaced people) camps continues to grow," the document said. "The population's lack of trust in the police and other government organizations is seen as a major obstacle to overcome the process of returning to normality," it said. The United Nations estimates 70,000 people have died of malnutrition and disease in Darfur, a figure the government disputes. The total does not include deaths due to violence because U.N. officials say reliable figures do not exist. The military chiefs gathered ahead of a scheduled meeting of AU's Peace and Security Council on October 20 to decide on the expanded duties and numbers of the Darfur force. AU Chairman Olusegun Obasanjo, the Nigerian President, said last week that the AU will begin deploying 4,000 more troops to Darfur, bringing the total to 4,500 by the end of November. It was not immediately clear why the number of extra troops differed from the figure suggested in the working paper. The document said an annual budget of up to $221 million would be required for the enhanced force to be deployed in Darfur, but did not say where the money would come from. An African diplomat working closely with the AU said the money could come out of the European Union's $312 million peace support fund, which it has placed under the AU's authority. Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties golder jubilee marked by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The golden jubillee of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties was marked Tuesday October 19, 2004 with various events organized at Sheraton Addis. Addressing a seminar that discussed cooperation between the two countries, State Minister of Finance and Economic Development Dr. Mulu Ketsela commended the various Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia. "Especially in the last two frameworks of our cooperation, we were able to enhance our bilateral consultations and witnessed noticeable change in the scope of Swedish involvement and skill assistance. It is in this period that we received over 1 billion birr for the period of five years," she said. Minister of Education Genet Zewdie, on her part appreciated Sweden's important role in the history of Ethiopia's modern education. "Nearly half of our primary schools have been built through Swedish assistance and the schools built in different parts of the country are indeed the monument of Swedish commitment to the people of Ethiopia." W/ro Genet also indicated that it was not only in terms of school construction that the education of this country benefited from Sweden. "We have received enormous support worth of millions of dollars in the provision of educational materials," the minister added. She also took the opportunity to call upon the Swedish Government to further strengthen its excellent cooperation and establish a strong partnership on mutual respect and support especially in the areas of capacity building in which education and training are its main component. Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson said that his government's active partnership with to the Ethiopian Government emanates mainly from its commitment to establish good governance, combating poverty and backwardness and bring about rapid economic growth. As part of the programme, a photographic exhibition and a musical show was presented by the Cherry Bombs - a Swedish band including Ethiopian born Swedish Daniel Lemma. The Swedish community in Addis Ababa, government officials including President Girma Wolde-Giorgis, members of the diplomatic corps and other invited guests attended the programme. October 22, 2004 House endorses appointment of judges, bilateral accords ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed the appointment of four judges and two bilateral trade agreements. In its second Fifth Year Regular Session, the House endorsed the appointment of a judge for Federal High Court and three others for First Federal Instance Courts as presented by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. The House also endorsed by acclamation the Ethio-Algeria and the Ethio-Libya Bilateral Trade Agreements, submitted by the Trade and Industry Standing Committee. The agreements are expected to enhance Ethiopia's trade ties with the two countries. The House has also referred the proclamation to ratify the agreement signed on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment between Ethiopia and Iran to the same Committee. The agreement would have a significant importance in bringing into foreign investment technology, administrative know-how and inflow of capital to Ethiopia. The House has also referred the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction Ratification to the Foreign, Defence and Security Affairs Standing Committee for further scrutiny. OPDP resolves to raise women's political representation during upcoming elections ADAMA (ENA) - The Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO) has announced activities to raise women candidacy for the upcoming national elections by 30 to 50 per cent. In line with the resolution passed during OPDO's 5th organizational conference held recently, public consultations have now begun to nominate women election contestants with a view to boosting the limited political representation of women, OPDO Office Head Aberra Hailu told ENA. OPDP has launched activities to nominate competent women candidates in its bid to raising women representation at the parliament from 13 to 54 and that at the state council from 70 to 200, he said. OPDO members have been on the move to enable women to benefit fully from their right to elect and be elected as well as to nominate women contenders who meet criteria, he indicated. Raising the political representation of women is vital in view of their responsibilities in the society and their greater roles in the efforts geared towards ensuring sustainable development, he said. He expressed the commitment of OPDO to realize the resolution. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.22,2004 =================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Mon Oct 25 14:49:21 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041025124921.75120.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 23, 2004 Somali President arrives here ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed arrived here yesterday on a working visit. Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin and other senior government officials accorded him a warm-welcome upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. While here, the Somali President will hold talks with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and other government officials on issues of current affairs in Somalia. President Abdullahi is also to hold talks with the Peace and Security Council of the African Union enhancing peace and security in Somalia. He is also to meet and hold talks with EU Secretary-General Javier Solana, who was also to arrive here last evening. Axum Obelisk to be transported home next December ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Efforts aimed at transporting the Axum Obelisk from Italy to Ethiopia until the coming December are well underway, Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Teshome Toga said. Ambassador Teshome told ENA Thursday that a study enabling to transport the Obelisk by aircraft has already been finalized. Tehsome, who is also Chairman of the National Committee for the Return of the Axum Obelisk, said Ethiopia on its part has accepted the study that would enable to transport the Obelisk by aeroplane. The study has confirmed that the Obelisk can be transported safely by "Antonov 124" aircraft from Italy to Ethiopia in three rounds, he said. Inviting companies who will compete in an auction to transport the Obelisk will be the next step, according to the Minister. The Obelisk has already been dismantled safely and packed, and was kept in an airport in Rome, Ambassador Teshome said. According to the study, Axum Airport has the capacity to accommodate the stated aircraft while work on the construction of a road linking the airport with the place where the Obelisk will be re-erected, is in progress. The return of the Obelisk to country of its origin will have a paramount importance in enhancing the longstanding friendly relations and bilateral cooperation between Ethiopian and Italy, Ambassador Teshome said. Council refers bills to House ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Council of Ministers referred bills to the House of Peoples' Representatives with some amendments for approval after a thorough discussion. Office of the Cabinet Affairs Ministry told ENA yesterday that, the Council in its 117th session discussed the agreement signed and the ratification bill to secure loan from the Arab Bank for the African Economy Development for the provision of safe drinking water to the Kibre-Mengist town. The Council also passed a decision on the agreement singed with the International Development Association and ratification bill to obtain loan for the provision of safe drinking water and implementation of sanitation projects as well as for the government's capacity building sector. Accordingly, the Council checked that the loan agreements were consistent with the loan strategy of the country and decided to refer the bill to the House of Peoples' Representatives for approval. The ministers also looked into the amended bill on retired employees jointly organized by the ministries of Justice, Labour and Social Affairs and Trade and Industry as well as Social Security Authority after a direction was given by the Council. The amended bill has included new articles that could protect the benefits of employees. The Council referred the bill to the House of peoples' Representatives for approval. Gov't committed to strengthen, sustain educational reform: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Government of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia has issued an appropriate education policy and launched the educational and vocational training programme with the firm belief that execution capacity building is a key task in extricating the country from poverty and backwardness, the Ministry of Information said. According to the ministry's weekly statement issued yesterday, the task of capacity building requires vast and perpetual activities. As education and vocational training are instruments of building execution capacity, special focus and attention was given to the reform process, it said. In the last few years, various intensive activities were launched to address the issue of execution capacity building and mitigate problems in the educational and vocational training sector, the statement said. The statement further said that many schools were built in rural areas which benefited millions of children and efforts were exerted to improve the secondary and higher education sector. Citing the multifaceted activities underway to make educational institutions that produce competent and truly educated citizens capable of realizing all-round development, the statement said this achievement is assumed to be a result of the joint efforts of parents, the government and the public at large. The statement finally said the government is committed to strengthen and continue the joint effort in partnership with all stakeholders, particularly teachers and students to improve the quality of educational and the vocational training system. October 24, 2004 Meles reaffirms Ethiopia's continued support for Somalia Holds talks with Solana ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi says that Ethiopia would continue to extend support for Somalia until peace and security is ensured and permanent government is established. During talks with the newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, here yesterday, Meles said that his country is committed to strengthen peace and security in Somalia. Meles recalled that the people and government of Ethiopia have also been extending their support for Somalia from the beginning up to now to maintain peace and security in the Country. Out of its strong commitment to bring about peace and stability, Ethiopia has been exerting maximum efforts throughout the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring a lasting peace in Somalia that has helped form the transitional government in the country. Prime Minister Meles said that Ethiopia would do everything possible to ensure law and order in Somalia in the years ahead. He also expressed his conviction that country neighbouring Somalia and the international community would continue their support for the establishment of a permanent government in Somalia. President Abdullahi called for continued Ethiopian support to bring about lasting peace in his country. He also conveyed thanks to the people and government of Ethiopia as well as member countries of IGAD for their unwavering support towards ensuring peace in his country that led to the establishment of the transitional government. Sharif Hassen Shekh, Speaker of the Transitional Federal Parliament told journalists on his part that the Parliament was successfully formed through public participation thanks to the efforts launched by Ethiopia and other IGAD member countries. Sharif also thanked Ethiopia for providing hospitality to tens of thousands of Somali refugees at a very difficult time. He also called for Ethiopia's and AU's continued support for the efforts of the Somali Transitional Government. Asked about the transitional government's plan to include Somaliland within the present government, the Speaker said that efforts have already been launched to include it and through peaceful means. Speaking to journalists on his part, Special Ethiopian Envoy to the Somali National Reconciliation Conference, Ambassador Abdulazizi Ahmed, said that the people of Somalia were happy that the transitional government has been formed. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks here yesterday with European Union Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana on situations prevailing in the Horn of Africa. The talks between the two officials centered on the peace process in Somalia and humanitarian crisis in Darfur, according to a spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also deliberated extensively on the activities being done by the African Union to ensure law and order in Somalia. Meles and Solana have also discussed ways of the support the EU will extend to the peacekeeping force to be deployed by the African Union in Darfur, Sudan, the spokesperson said. They also held wide-ranging discussion on ways of EU's support to be given to the Transitional Government of Somalia to help it ensure peace in its country. Solana told journalists after the talks that he and Prime Minister Meles had constructive discussion on the efforts launched to maintain peace and security in Africa. Plebiscite determining fate of 463 kebeles to be held today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The plebiscite that will determine the fate of 463 kebeles bordering Somalia and Oromia states would be held today as scheduled, the National Electoral Board said. The people living in kebeles, where the registration of voters has been completed, would go to polls beginning 6:00 a.m until 6 p.m today, the Board told ENA yesterday. Election executives, observers and security personnel would be in polling stations beginning from 11:00 a.m, it said. The plebiscite will be held in secret ballots, according to the Board. Both states have territorial claims over the stated kebeles and the plebiscite is expected to resolve the problem. ================================ pol.ethiopia Oct.25,2004 ====================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 28 14:52:46 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041028125246.48493.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 28, 2004 Extreme poverty in Nile Basin said linked to environmental resources mismanagement by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA- Vice Minister of Water Resource said that extreme poverty in Nile River Basin is closely lined to the mismanagement of the environmental resources on which the basin people depend for survival. Opening a three-day workshop "Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project" at the Ethiopian Management Institute yesterday, Ato Mesfin Tegene said that the Nile River is the longest river in the world, travelling over 6,700 kms that covers one tenth of Africa's total landmass. "It serves as home to world-class environment assesses an estimated 160 million people within the boundaries of the basin; while nearly twice that number - roughly 300 million - live within the ten countries that share or depend on Nile waters, many of them among the world's poorest,:" he added. The Vice Minister also said that to prepare an action plan geared towards concerted basin wide environmental interventions, Transboundary Environmental analysis (TEA) has been developed in May 2001 by Nile riparian states in cooperation with the UNDP and World Bank with a fund provided by the Global Environmental facility. The process was also backed by USAID. According to him, the TEA is intended as both a catalyst and valuable resources to the Nile riparian countries and their international partners as their historic political cooperation begins to be translated into effective measures aimed at sustainable economic development in the Nile Basin. He further indicated that as environmental education and awareness racing programme within the Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project, focus on creating awareness on the river Nile environmental threats, stimulating behavioral change at three levels - the general public, secondary schools and tertiary institutions. The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), formally launched in February 1999 by the Council of Ministers of Water Affairs of the Nile Basin countries (Nile-COM), is guided by a shared vision; "to achieve sustainable socio-economic development through the equitable utilization of, and benefit from, the common Nile Basin water resources." Some 65 senior professionals drawn from the Ministry, Oromia, Gambella, Benshangul-gumuz, Tigray and Amhara states and other pertinent governmental offices, representatives from international and local donor organizations re in attendance at the workshop. ICRC organizes discussion on alternatives to imprisonment ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in collaboration with Penal Reform International conducted a two-day discussion on the alternatives to imprisonment, which is known as community service. According to press release of ICRC sent to WIC yesterday, discussions were held on the community service that is a scheme under which judicial decisions require a light offender to perform unpaid work in the community with a view to making reparations for the offence one has committed. Is said the workshop at the Ghion Hotel was aimed at creating a forum where stakeholders discussed the advantages and disadvantages of community service in the Ethiopian context. On the occasion, Vice-Minister of Justice, Ali Suleman, said that the current Justice Reform Programme in Ethiopia is improving the legal system in general and the alternatives to prison punishment in particular by giving it primary attention. The commissioner General of Ugandan Prison, the Programme Co-ordinator for community Server in Kenya and an expert from Switzerland shared their respective countries experiences followed by panel discussions led by the head of Africa Programme from penal Reform International. Amhara Justice Bureau Head and the Deputy commissioner of the Federal Prisons presented papers on the importance of alternatives to imprisonment in the Ethiopian context and the problems to be encountered at the implementation stage. The workshop was opened by Marco Brudermann, head of ICRC delegation, and attended by representatives of the Federal Prison Commission, Ministry of Justice, Parliament, Institute of legal Studies, Ministry of Federal Affairs, Ministry of Capacity Building, federal courts as well as state justice bureaus, courts and prison administrations. Sudanese Parliament approves expansion of AU mission to Darfur ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - THE Sudanese national Assembly approved Tuesday the expansion of the African Union (AU) mission to its troubled western region of Darfur, Zihhua reported Tuesday. The lawmakers made the decision after listening to a statement delivered by Foreign Minister Mustafa Thaman Ismail on the issue, it said quoting the official Omdurman Radio report. Ismail told the parliament that this choice is the best among all proposals. "The AU mission would be assigned to a duty of monitoring the ceasefire breaches by either side, building confidence between the conflicting sides, monitoring aid flowing to the needy people in Darfur, providing good conditions to stop hostilities between all sides as well as creating chances for development, said Ismail. The AU, which is sponsoring peace talks between the Sudanese Government and the Darfur rebels, announced this week that it was set to boost the number of truce-monitoring troops in Darfur sevenfold to 3,320. Some 150 AU ceasefire monitors are in Darfur along with more than 300 troops to protect them, according to the Chinese news agency. The expanded missions will comprise over 3,000 persons who are expected to be deployed in camps and to monitor Sudanese police. =========================== pol.ethiopia Oct.28,2004 ============== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail Address AutoComplete - You start. We finish. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 29 14:40:13 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Tue Apr 17 18:19:41 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041029124013.97413.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 29, 2004 House passes three bills Civil servants' amended Pension Proclamation goes into effect ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed agreements reached with the Governments of Libya and Iran and a bill amending Civil Servants Pension Proclamation. The House endorsed the bills unanimously during its 5th year 3rd regular session. Accordingly, the House endorsed the bill providing for the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Libya to cooperate in cultural, youth and sports. "This agreement is believed to promote the image of Ethiopia and to help strengthen the capacity building efforts underway," the Information and Cultural Affairs Standing Committee said in a recommendation. The other bill provides for investment promotion and protection agreement reached between Ethiopia and Iran. The Trade and Industry Affairs Standing Committee in a recommendation said that the agreement would be vital to enhance the cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the field of investment and the economy. Meanwhile, the House endorsed the amended bill providing for Civil Servant's Pension and decided that it go in to effect on October 28, 2004. The amended proclamation has a new Sub-article (3) which states: "A public servant who has completed at least 20 years of service and who has reached at least 45 years of age may receive retirement pension for life where the government office he has been working for ceases to exist or he is reduced from the workforce in connection with privatization or his contract of employment is terminated as a result of inefficiency by a decision of the Council of Ministers." Sub-article (2) of Article 17 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who has been receiving invalidity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." Yet another Sub-Article (2) of Article 30 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who is receiving incapacity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." EAL graduates 11 pilots by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Multi-National Aviation Training Centre of the Ethiopian AirLines (EAL) yesterday graduated 11 Ethiopian pilots who completed the commercial pilot course with Instrument and Multiengine Ratings. After handing out diplomats and awards to the class 36A of pilot's wing, Flight Operations Executive Officer Capt. Tesfaye Ambaye called upon the graduates to be active enough in applying what they learnt and keep learning in the course of their career. Pilot Training School Manager Col. Belay Assefa on his part said that the School was to embark on a new approach of handling the commercial pilot course different from that of the traditional way that was in use for the last 40 years as of November 1,2004. "We have developed a new integrated course syllabus structured for Private Piloting Licence (PPL), Commercial Piloting Licence (CPL), Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings (IR/ME) to be handled progressively instead of one complete CPL/IR/ME package," he said. According to the Manager, the School has also purchased two additional used C-172XPs aimed at building the capacity of the training fleet to meet the ever increasing training demand. The Manager also called upon the graduates to always commit themselves to work hard and remain abreast of the fast advancing technology. "Always make SAFETY your objective and open your mind to learn from your senior professionals," he advise the graduates. During the 24 months of their stay, the group has covered 1000:00 hours of class instruction 250:00 hours of practical flight training both on single and multiengine Trainer flight training aircrafts. The Outgoing class brings the total number of graduates to 728 out of which 437 are Ethiopians and 291 foreign graduates from over 33 African countries. EAL officials, parents of the graduates and other invited guests attended the graduation ceremony held at the Employees' Main Cafeteria. Sweden, UNDP sign pledge to support election ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Government of Sweden and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement in support of the Basket Fund sponsoring the Multi-Donor Assistance for the 2005 National Election in Ethiopia, UNDP said here yesterday. According to UNDP press release, the contribution of 10 million Swedish Kroner from Sweden should be seen in the context of pledges estimated at over 4.5 million US dollars from the Donor Sub-Group on elections, chaired by Sweden. The release said Austria, Canada, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Spain and Sweden, among others, are members of the Sub-Group. The overall objective of the Multi-Donor Trust Fund Project is to contribute to the development of a free, open and accountable political system of governance and the consolidation of democracy in Ethiopia through the organization and conduct of the fourth-coming national elections in May 2005. In fulfilling these objectives, the current project is designed to assist the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEB) with the conduct and overall management of the electoral process in cooperation with a range of national stakeholders. Counsellor with the Embassy of Sweden, Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg and Resident Representative of UNDP, Modibo Toure signed the agreement, according to the release. EC allocates 12.5 mln. euros to drought, disease victims in the Horn ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The European Commission (EC) has allocated 12.5 million euros in humanitarian aid to victims of drought and disease in the horn of Africa- Eritrea (1 million), Ethiopia (6.5 million), Kenya (3.85 million) and Somalia (1.15 million). Activities will include emergency health care in Somalia and Ethiopia, and emergency drought response in Eritrea, Ethiopia and Kenya. This EU support will provide a lifeline for thousands of pastoralists suffering from the effects of water shortage, the Commission's Humanitarian Aid office said on Wednesday. Funds will be channeled through the European Commission's Humanitarian Aid Directorate General (ECHO) which comes under the responsibility of Commissioner Poul Nielson. In Eritrea, receding ground water levels following successive years of drought are leading to pockets of acute need as water supplies fail. ECHO emergency assistance will secure essential water supplies, and supplementary nutritional assistance. An estimated 150,000 people, mainly women and children located in rural areas, are expected to benefit from these activities over the next twelve months. In Ethiopia, acute needs have arisen in the southeast due to drought; while in a number of regions malaria is reaching epidemic levels, notably in areas where populations have recently been resettled, it said ECHO will provide emergency water and nutritional assistance to drought affected areas. In addition, ECHO will provide emergency medical assistance including more effective medicines to address epidemic malaria. In total, up to one million people are estimated to benefit from this assistance over the next 12 months. In Kenya, much of the north of the country, and in particular the pastoralist populations there, are suffering from drought. An estimated 600,000 people will benefit from a range of activities financed by ECHO, including emergency water, health and veterinary assistance. In Somalia, as a result of over a decade of civil war, health indicators are amongst the worst in the world, and the most vulnerable people have little or no access to health care. ECHO's assistance will focus on providing access to primary and secondary health care through support to clinic and hospital facilities including vaccination, pediatric and maternity care. This decision will help an estimated 250,000 people, especially in the capital Mogadishu. ==================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.29,2004 ======================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 1 10:15:29 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041001081530.21069.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> September 30,2004 National coffee export rose to 109,895 tonnes: Ministry ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The national coffee export has been raised to 109,895 tonnes in the year 2002 from only 50,967 tonnes 14 years ago, State Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development said. Speaking at the inauguration workshop of quality coffee project, Belay Ejigu said yesterday coffee export has been increasing owing to the attention attached to the expansion and the quality of coffee production. Coffee accounts 40-60 per cent of the country's export, Belay said, adding the livelihood of some 15 million households depend of coffee directly or indirectly. The minister underscored the need to improve both the quantity and quality of exportable coffee to benefit from the highly competitive world coffee trade. He also said the farmer has a vital role toward improving the quality of coffee. Hence, improved extension work should enhance harvesting, drying and strong performances at the level of farmer's holdings. Around 75-80 per cent of coffee in Ethiopia is prepared in dry processing though wet processing is more advantageous on attaining high price, the state minister said. Opening the workshop, Director for International Development (CABI) Dennis Rangi said Africa, with more than 300 million people living in extreme poverty; represents only three per cent of global trade. Rangi said his organization would continue providing technical and financial support to the quality coffee project. The three-day sub regional workshop that discusses coffee quality and price as brought together close to 70 participants from the various African countries including Ethiopia. EU runs 1.8 bln. euros cooperation programmes by Dagne Biazen ADDIS ABABA - The European Union (EU) is currently engaged in multi-faceted cooperation programmes in Ethiopia allocating 1.8 billion euros primarily focusing on three main planks of the programme budgetary support, developing transport infrastructure and food security issues. In an exclusive interview with the Herald yesterday, Mr. David Limpan, EU Information, Press and Communication Head and Ambassador Timothy Clarke, Head of Delegation of the European Commission in Ethiopia, said that Ethiopia is the most important recipient of development, food and emergency aid. Ambassador Clarke said: "Historically, we have been involved in food security and infrastructure for many years here since 1975," adding that his job within the Commission is to deliver these resources-high quality, major impact, leading people's needs and fighting poverty. "Our main focus here is really an overall context about development cooperation, to try to fight poverty and turn poor people from the chronic situation where they are in. We are also engaging in a very serious dialogue with ministers and try to see how we can involve in these issues," he said. He further said: "Europe is and will remain a really major partner to Ethiopia and we want to deepen that partnership with a view to ensuring and providing cooperation assistance highly targeted and high quality," according to Ambassador Clarke, the EU also runs cooperation programmes through NGOs, the civil society and other stakeholders. The EU extends not only financial assistance but also gives political support in trade and private sector development, he said. "We are involved in one or another in every single element of the economy of Ethiopia," Ambassador Clarke said. Commenting on the trade and investment relations between the EU and Ethiopia, the Ambassador said: "We have already involved through our direct budgetary support programmes and the support to the private sector to try to encourage liberalization of the market in providing support to micro and small-scale enterprises. We are also interested in supporting Ethiopia's efforts through the Adoha trade negotiations to try to improve the position of Ethiopia. Food security covers different areas-emergency food aid, technical assistance at woreda and kebele levels. In the future, a safety nety programme which the government has been negotiating with all donors which EU and the World Bank are the two biggest. We had meeting yesterday to finalize an aid memoir for the programme which involves some 200 million euros annually to support upto 5 million individuals who are chronically malnourished," Ambassador Clarke said. He also said that government is in a very credible effort to make all attempts to ensure that the money allocated goes to the right channel. "We are also considering a new injection of up to 120 million euros into the safety net programme over several years. And we have reached the final stages with the government on how this money should be allocated," he indicated. He further noted that Ethiopia plays a pivotal role in the region to bring peace, and stability, to Somalia, Sudan and the neighbouring countries and said: "We are very encouraged by many of the steps taken by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and his colleagues in trying to promote peace, stability, security and conflict resolutions mechanisms." Mr. Lipman, on his part said: "We have decided to bring to Addis all the press and information officers of the European Commissions' delegations in Anglophone, Francophone Africa as well as Portuguese speaking African countries. Basically, we have got simple messages! Who are we? What is Europe? What is the European Union? The 25 countries?" "We have to explain very simply to people what we are going to help. For instance, in Africa, it is largely development assistance programmes." According to Mr. Lipman, the European Union is the largest donor for development assistance in the world. Some 50 per cent of the world development assistance is given by the EU of which 20 per cent is managed by the Commission and its delegations. So there are very simple messages. Lots of things that we are doing but people don't know and we have to talk about who we want to target the media and the decision-makers among others, he said. National Bank adds security feature on 100, 50 birr notes New notes to be in circulation as of today by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - The National Bank of Ethiopia yesterday announced that additional security feature has been added on the 100 and 50 birr notes to guard against the ever-increasing counterfeit bills. Bank Vice-Governor Alemseged Assefa told journalists that the new notes, which would be incirculation beginning today bear holographic lead with primer on the front sides of the notes. Alemseged said that elements embodied in the security feature are Arabian numeral of the value of the note, Geez numeral of the note in side the circulars mesh-type artistic design, Amharic emblem of the bank, full number of the bank in capital letters and finger print type and circular anti-copier background in place of the previous "void" features. The vice-governor also said that the added security features on the banknotes are believed to help discourage forged bills and forgery. Asked why the Bank added security features only on the 100 and 50 birr notes, Alemseged said that most of the counterfeit bills so far were these. According to him, the bank preferred the new security feature considering the experience of other countries and the cost for replacing it. The substitution of the notes would take one year to give enough time for the public, he added. "The public at large is expected to substitute all the 100 and 50 birr notes with a year. This does not mean that they should come to the bank for replacement," he said. According to him, the substitution would be materialized through the routine transaction and the bank would play a significant role injecting the new notes. October 1, 2004 Over 209 mln. birr projects, programmes designed to enable Africa to benefit from AGOA ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Leather and Leather Products Institute (LLPI) of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) says it has designed and produced nine projects and programmes at a cost of 209 million birr to enable the African leather industry to benefit form the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA). Director of the Ethiopian Leather and Leather Products Institute, Dr. Geremew Debele told a relevant seminar yesterday that stimulating and strengthening the capacity of the leather industry could enable to take advantage of AGOA. Dr. Geremew said strengthening the capacity of the East and Central African countries could enable to participate more effectively in the multilateral trade system. It could also help develop and implement private sector business support strategies for increasing trade under the AGOA. Governmental institutions and private investors engaged in the leather and leather products processing and export industries are in attendance at the two-day seminar. Sweden, nine NGOs sign cooperation agreements ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Embassy of Sweden signed yesterday cooperation agreements with nine NGOs on support amounting to around 145,000,000 birr for the development of the NGO sector over a three-year period. Representatives of CRDA, Pathfinder International, Pact Ethiopia, Sustainable Land Use Forum, Consortium of Reproductive Health Associations, Network of Ethiopia Women's Associations, Save the Children Denmark, Jerusalem Children Community Development Organization and Initiative Africa signed the agreement with counselor for Development Cooperation at the Embassy Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg. The support is in line with the Ethiopian Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) that Sweden has firmly supported, Ambassador of Sweden to Ethiopia, Hakan Akesson said on the occasion. He said Sweden has increased its support to Ethiopia since last year as it has trust that Ethiopia is capable of combating poverty and bring about all rounded development. Vibrant civil societies are important towards strengthening the government's commitment to fight poverty in all directions as they play crucial role in promoting people's participation and ensuring public awareness, the ambassador said. Thus, he said, Sweden, for the first time, has given such large-scale strategic support to civil society organizations in Ethiopia. "We want to strengthen the capacity of the civil society to contribute to achieving the goals of the Ethiopian poverty reduction strategy," Lofstrom-Berg said. The Swedish country strategy for development cooperation with Ethiopia 2003-2007 has identified democracy and human rights, women's rights and advocacy against Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), child rights, HIV/AIDS and environmental issues as five areas of cooperation with NGOs in Ethiopia. The Government of Sweden selected the NGOs after making a thorough assessment with regard to their capacity and strength, among others, programme officer for development cooperation with the embassy, Adeye Befekadu said. As the most urgent area, HIV/AIDS gets the priority and highest allocation followed by democracy and human rights, and women's and child rights, she said. Some 24,000,000 birr per year of the total budget planned for the civil society support has specifically been allocated for the fight against HIV/AIDS over the 2004/05-2006/07. UEDP, MEDHIN merge by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The United Ethiopian Democratic Party (UEDP) and the Ethiopian Medhin Democratic Party (MEDHIN) have merged forming the "UEDP-MEDHIN PARTY." The merger was announced at a ceremony held at Sheraton Addis yesterday where the merger document agreement was signed by Chairman of the Central Council of MEDHIN, Dr. Moges Gebre-Mariam and President of UEDP, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu. Representatives of the two parties indicated on the occasion that joining their membership and all their resources is of paramount importance to fully and effectively participate in the overall democratization process. Executive of the Bipartisan Committee, Kifle Tigneh, told the gathering called to witness the merger that a federal government composed of self administrative regional governments as one of the main pillars of the party political programme. Accordingly, he said, the criteria for the federal arrangement shall include considerations of historical and cultural affiliation, language, geography, population distribution and conduciveness to good governance and development. In addition, economically, the Party's policies are based on the principle of "free market economy" and shall be designed mainly to bolster private sector participation, he said. On the occasion, Dr. Admassu Gebeyehu was named President while Dr. Hailu Araya, Col. Goshu Wolde, and Ato Lidetu Ayalew Senior vice President, Vice-President and Secretary General respectively. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.1,2004 =============================== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail - You care about security. So do we. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 5 12:45:29 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041005104529.8656.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 2, 2004 Ethio-German business partnership said growing Bilateral relations centenary to be celebrated by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - German Ambassador Strachwitz, Couness Dr. Helga said yesterday that business partnership between Ethiopia and her country gathered momentum after the signing of the bilateral agreement on the encouragement and reciprocal protection of investment following Chancellor Gerhard Schroder's visit on 19th January 2004. At press conference called to brief on the draft programme of the centennial of Ethio-German relations, the Ambassdor said that two German companies were so far engaged in the horticulture industry - one with nine million euros and another giant company which decided just recently to invest 35 million euros. The Ambassador said that other German companies are showing growing interest to invest in this country, which, she described as 'a promising start'. According to her, the German market for Ethiopian coffee still remains to be open and Germany continues to be the major purchaser - 35 percent of the country's coffee export. She also said that the German market is showing interest in Ethiopian wild coffee. So far, Germany had spent 1.2 billion euros on bilateral cooperation programmes in Ethiopia, she said. In the last two years and next year, some 70 million euros would be spent on development programmes especially vocational training and capacity building, she indicated. The Ambassador also announced the centenary of Ethio-German relations would be celebrated with various events. Conferences, exhibitions, and symphony concerts are some of the events planned to be staged both in Ethiopia and Germany. Senior officials' visit at presidential and PM level as well as parliamentarians is also part of the event. The Ambassador indicated that the opening of the new building of the German Cultural Institute and the Gebre-Kristos Desta Centre would be part of the event. "Since 1988/89, 35 of Gebre-Kristos' paintings most of them belonging to his family have been stored in the depots of the Staatliches Museum Fuer Voelkerkunde in Munich, In his last will and testament he instructed that his 'German' paintings should be returned to his native soil as soon as political stability was restored and respect for human rights guaranteed much as Picasso's Guernica eventually came home to Spain," she said. All parties concerned have agreed that the time has now come to fulfill his last wish, she added. Olympic Committee President dies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Assefa Mamo, who was the President of the Ethiopian Olympic Committee (EOC), passed away yesterday, the Committee announced. In a statement sent to ENA, EOC announced the death of Assefa, who had deep-rooted love for sports and was striving, for the expansion of sports in the country. The statement said the departed had been planning and executing various activities with a view to strengthening the Ethiopian Olympic Committee. It is saddening to sports fraternity that the late Assefa passed away at the time when he was active here and abroad to construct the Ethiopian Olympic Centre, the Committee said. Executive committee members and the sports families express their heartfelt condolences over the death of the respected sports leader, the statement said. The late Assefa was married and survived by a daughter and two sons, it said. According to the statement, the funeral of the late Assefa Mamo will be conducted today in Adi Abun near Adowa town of Tigray State. He was born in 1949 E.C.. Meanwhile, Association of National Olympic Committees of Africa (ANOCA) expressed deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to EOC executive staff and the bereaved family over the passing away of Assefa Mamo. In a message sent to EOC, ANOCA President Ambassador Alpha Ibrahim Diallo said the death of the respected sports leader was a big loss not only to EOC but also to the African Olympic and Sports Movement. Providing accurate information to public ensures active participation in national election: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The upcoming national election will be one of the major activities of the year, the Ministry of Information, said in its weekly statement issued yesterday. The successful activity of such magnitude begins with creating a favourable condition for a fair and free election, the ministry noted. Therefore, the contending political parties are expected to provide the public the necessary information on the political, economic, social and cultural aspects of their programmes, what they have accomplished so far, their vision and direction in the future, the statement added. In regard to this, the debate between the political parties on the role of civil society and good governance organized by a Public Policy Forum of the Inter-Africa Group was held at ECA Conference Hall, on Sep. 26, 2004, the ministry underlined. Infact, the forum was characterized by tolerance the statement said, adding that it is important to note that such for a are venues through which political parties present their views and plans to the electorate. October 3, 2004 UNMEE to reduce troops soon ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The United Nations Mission in Ethiopia and Eritrea (UNMEE) announced Friday that it would soon reduce its 3,600 strong peacekeeping force. UNMEE's Spokesperson Gail Bindley-Taylor Sainte told AFP that the reduction was made due to the departure of 500 Kenyan soldiers. The exact date of the departure is not yet known, he added. The UN Security Council extended on September 14 UNMEE's mandate until March next year, which, according to him called for a reduction in its size with a view to reducing its annual budget of about 200 million USD. Blair to arrive here Tuesday ADDIS ABABA (ENA/EH) - British Prime Minister, Tony Blair is scheduled to arrive in Addis Ababa, Tuesday to attend a meeting of the Commission on Africa scheduled to take place from 7-8 Oct. 2004, Associated Press (AP) reported. The 51-year-old Prime Minister established the Commission on Africa on February 28,2004 to take a renewed look at the challenges Africa faces and to generate increased support for the G8 Africa Action Plan. The first meeting of the Commission took place in London on 4 May 2004. The commissioners, including Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi then agreed on their work plan. Since the commissioners and members of the secretariat have been consulting widely with a wide range of stakeholders-including academia, parliamentarians, civil society, the development community and Diaspora groups. The commissioners will bring their ideas to Addis Ababa and work on them as a group. Their work in this second meeting will be the next step towards their final report and recommendations for action, to be published in spring 2005. Blair returned to Downing Street after a successful treatment to correct an irregular heartbeat at a hospital in west London on Friday, Xinhua reported quoting Sky News. According to the live television reports from the scene, Blair looked relaxed and smiled as he climbed out of his chauffeur-driven Jaguar and greeted the press. The Hammersmith Hospital said in a statement that the chance of his atria flutter returning was "very low". Blair was treated for "an irregular heartbeat due to atrial flutter (using) a planned procedure called radio frequency catheter ablation," said the hospital. "The procedure was successful in eliminating the atrial flutter. We consider the risk of refureence of the problem to be very low," it said. Blair first exhibited symptoms of an irregular heartbeat in October last year. The symptoms also reoccurred in August. He became the Prime Minister of Britain in 1997. ECA Executive Secretary urges journalists to fight against HIV/AIDS ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Executive Secretary of the Economic Commission for Africa, K.Y. Amoako, called upon African journalists here Friday to actively participate in the fight against HIV/AIDS and focus on other major African issues. Responding to Questions posed by the journalists at the conclusion of a workshop on HIV/AIDS reporting, the Executive Secretary said a study conducted in 28 African countries by ECA shows that the role of African media is developing. "The good news is that in these countries, the role of the media, the emergence of private newspapers, the conduct in which news are reported is now making progress," he said. But, Amoako added that there are lots of things "to grapple with in terms of the role of the media in general." He said the media have to improve their performances in: "fairness issues, code of ethics, quality of reporting and the ability to see key issues and bring them to the attention of the people." The Executive Secretary said Africa is trying to rid itself of corruption and maladministration. So, he urged the journalists to make improvements in the dissemination of information. The Economic Commission for Africa and the Reuters Foundation organized the workshop, attended by 17 journalists drawn from Africa, Asia and Latin America. October 5, 2004 Houses commence 5th year tenure President says laws in the pipeline vital to enhance development, democratization endeavours by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis said the various proclamations expected to be enacted by the House of Peoples' Representatives this Ethiopian year would be instrumental in enhancing the ongoing development and democratization efforts in the country. Opening the joint session of the 5th year tenure of the Houses of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation yesterday, President Girma said the laws awaiting the approval of the Lower House would go along way in building execution capacity as well as promoting transparency and accountability in government institutions. Draft proclamations including the rural land administration and use; forest development, conservation and use' export meat licensing and organic agriculture system would have substantial contributions to the effective implementation of the rural development policy and to increasing the country's export earnings, the President said. The revised finance administration proclamation submitted to the House would enable to properly and effectively utilize public funds, he said adding that the proclamation would serve as a legal ground for other activities to be undertaken under the public expenditure reform subprogramme of the Civil Service Reform Programme. As regards boosting state revenues, President Girma said the amended proclamations of income tax and federal tax appeal council, among others, would help expedite the tax administration system thereby supporting the government's efforts to cover its recurrent and capital budget from local sources. The President also mentioned a number of legal frameworks in the pipeline in the areas of industrial and urban development. He said the proposal to re-establish the National Urban Planning Institute and the Design and Construction Supervisory Authority was part of these endeavours. The intended amendment of the Water Development Fund would help improve access to clean water, the President said, and expressed his conviction that the would-be established watershed development authority would come as a vital force in the efforts underway to ensure food self-sufficiency. President Girma also said that the draft press law, which, he said, had been extensively reviewed by local and international stakeholders, was expected to be approved by the House this year. The law would be critical inpromoting freedom of expression, which is enshrined, in the supreme law of the land, he added. He said a proclamation determining ways of entering into international agreements was also expected to be endorsed by the House in the stated period. The proclamation, he added, would help enhance Ethiopia's bilateral and multilateral relations and enable it to secure more development assistance. The revised proclamation of the licensing and registration of federal courts' lawyers, the proclamation for the expansion of youth sporting grounds as well as the documents registration proclamation and the advertisement proclamation and the advertisement proclamation were also among the laws expected to be enacted in the 1997 E.C., he said. The President has also stressed the need for making the legislative process more transparent through the active participation of the public, which, he said, would contribute considerably to intensifying the fight against poverty and backwardness. President Girma has also called upon the public to maximize their contribution in sustaining the encouraging results achieved in the areas of realizing rapid development and good governance as well as containing the spread of the HIV/AIDS pandemic. The opening joint session of the two Houses has unanimously approved the minutes of the 4th year joint opening and first sessions. Addis set to make Johannesburg partnership fruitful, exemplary: Arkebe ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Addis Ababa City Government Mayor, Arkebe Equbay said that the City Government is committed to the success of Johannesburg Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAO) Programme. Arkebe said that his government is committed to make the Johannesburg and Addis Ababa partnership a fruitful and exemplary programme. Arkebe made the remark here while receiving a South African delegation led by Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo. Unemployment and limited access to decent shelter and other services were the two major challenges of the city, the mayor said, adding the city government has launched an integrated housing development programme to curb these problems. According to the Mayor, the housing development programme aims at constructing thousands of low-cost houses, creating employment opportunities and creation of an efficient and strong construction industry. The city has gained significant achievements in community participation and devolution of power to the kebele level, the lowest tier of government, he said. The city government in collaboration with the local communities has also been striving to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS, the mayor said. Arkebe said Addis Ababa would learn a lot from Johannesburg with regard to urban management, urban governance, and urban development through JAAP programme. Speaking on the occasion, Executive Mayor Masondo said the JAAP programme aims at forging cooperation between the two sisterly cities mainly on sustainable growth and development, empowerment of women, and experience sharing. "For instance", Masondo said, "Addis Ababa can learn a lot about Geographic Information System (GIS) from Johannesburg." He also said that the two sisterly cities could cement mutual cooperation to mitigate common problems like poverty, unemployment and rapid urbanization. Manager of the city of Johannesburg, Pascal Moloi said on his part the JAAP programme includes cooperation, among others, on strategic planning and management, quality service delivery, land and housing, finance and economic development as well as HIV/AIDS intervention activities. Addis Ababa City Manager Tesfa-Michael Nahusenay reiterated on the occasion the multifaceted development schemes of the city government with a view to upgrading the city. The 20-member delegation, which is here on four-day official visit, would have a series of discussions with senior government officials and also visit various development projects in the city. Addis Ababa and Johannesburg entered into partnership agreement in 2003. ==================================== pol.ethiopia Oct.5,2004 =========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 6 16:00:55 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041006140055.33630.qmail@web53306.mail.yahoo.com> October 6, 2004 Meles, German Parliamentary delegation discuss cooperation ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday held talks with members of the Economic and Development Cooperation Committee with the German Parliament. Meles told the German Parliamentary delegation led by Walter Riester that Ethiopia desires to see its cooperation with Germany to focus mainly on the area of technical and vocational training. Meles said the Ethio-German all-rounded cooperation has now been taken to a new height. He said the Government of Germany has greatly been assisting in the activities underway in Ethiopia to speed up sustainable development. Ethiopia is eager to share the enormous experiences of Germany in the fields of technical and skill training, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs quoted Meles as saying. Meles said Ethiopia would greatly benefit from technical and vocational training cooperation with Germany. After talks with Meles, Riester told journalists that the discussions held with the Prime Minister focused on ways of strengthening cooperation in the field of technical and vocational training. The visit by the German delegation aims mainly at looking into possible ways of further enhancing the cooperation between the two countries. Members of the delegation are scheduled to visit the activities of the Menschen fur Menschen in Harar today. Joint session passes resolutions on census, interest income tax House urges Oromia, Somali states to make successful plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA)- The House of Peoples' Representatives and the House of the Federation have passed resolutions on issued pertinent to the Commission on Census and Interest Income Tax levying, collection and ownership. The two House passed the resolutions here yesterday during their joint session at the beginning of their 5th year term. The Houses endorsed the amended article to hold national census every ten years, and according to the results the House of the Federation shall decide the designation of constituencies according to the draft to be submitted by the National Electoral Board. However, the period for census may be prolonged in the event of problems beyond control, which the two Houses should prove in their joint meeting. According to the resolution, the Commission was expected to conduct a national census in 1997 E.C. in line with the Constitution's Article 103/5. However, as the schedule coincided with the upcoming national elections, the census is rescheduled for 1999 E.C. as there is a budgetary limitation to undertake both in a year. The two Houses, with no objection and six abstentions, endorsed the amendment. The two Houses also agreed that the Federal Government continue to be the body responsible for interest income tax levying, collection and ownership. Meanwhile, the joint session of the House of Peoples' Representatives and the Federation urged the Oromia and Somali states yesterday to make successful the plebiscite due to be held to determine the future status of the localities along the common borders of the two states. Members of the two Houses said the measures so far taken by the state and the Federal Governments to seek a peaceful solution to the problems along the borders of the two states were satisfactory. The peoples of the two states have expressed their desire to bring about sustainable economic development and facilitate ways for the establishment of good governance in their respective localities, Speaker of the House of the Federation Dr. Mulatu Teshome said. He said the plebiscite was believed to be instrumental in establishing durable peace along the common borders. He said it was entirely up to the people living along the common borders to determine their status by casting their ballots in a free and democratic manner. In another development, Speaker of the House of the Federation said yesterday that the House would be actively engaged in implementing the development policies and strategies designed to reduce poverty and bring about sustainable economic development. Dr. Mulatu Teshome said the House in its final term of office would also be involved in the establishment of democratic institutions and good governance. He said the House of the Federation is expected to pass various constitutional issues during its regular and special sessions this year. The House also decided in a unanimous vote that the people and housing census to be held in 1999 E.C. MPs say penal code improved in favour of women's children's rights ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - Two members of the House of People's Representatives said that the improved penal code of the country has been prepared in the manner that upholds the rights of women and children. At a panel discussion held on the improved penal code and reproductive health rights jointly organized by Walta Information Centre (WIC) and Ipass International here yesterday, Chairman of the House's Legal Affairs Standing Committee, Asmelash Wolde-Sellassie said that the code ensures the rights of women and children as it has been improved in line with the constitution and international conventions that the country accepted. According to the Chairman, provisions that protect women and children from physical and psychological damages are included in the code. Provisions concerning abuse by family members, rape, circumcision, and abduction, which were not part of the previous penal code, are incorporated in the improved code, he said, adding that it also promulgates conditions of abortion. He said the code also punishes the trafficking of women and children as well as labour exploitation. Women's Affairs Standing Committee Chairperson, Genet Tadesse said, on her part that the government is taking steps in building the capacities of the judiciary besides providing legal framework for the rights of women and children. Participant said that through the improvement of the penal code has paramount importance in ensuring rights of women and children, attention should also be given to its implementation and the creation awareness among the rural people. Commission for Africa to meet here tomorrow ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Tony Blair's Commission for Africa is to meet tomorrow and Friday here in the Ethiopian capital, to discuss Africa's future. In their eyes, they feel the continent's main problems are regional conflicts, refugees, trade and corruption, according to a BBC news article posted on the Internet. The delegates plan to hear from Africans on these topics. President reaffirms gov't support to organization's humanitarian activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis says that the Ethiopian Government would provide the necessary support to the Lutheran Hour Ministries for its humanitarian activities in Ethiopia. During talks with Ministries' Interim Executive Director Donald Bennett, at the National Palace yesterday, the president said that the humanitarian activities contribute to the development endeavours in the country. "Your assisntace for the health sector would greatly contribute towards the efforts to improving health services," he said. The president also requested the Lutheran Hour Ministries to increase its assistance to Ethiopia. Briefing reporters following talks with the president, Bennett said that the Lutheran Hour Ministries have donated medical equipment to the Makalle, Axum and Humera hospitals. He said the Ministries have also donated over 18,000 packages of books, and magazines to Ethiopian school age children. Ministries African and Middle East Director Dr. Essayas Menkir said that the organization was established in Ethiopia 10 years back. According to him, the Ministries are engaged in the provision of humanitarian support to the needy and the health sector. The delegation was to leave for the US last night concluding its three-week visit here. Johannesburg Mayor stresses exploring more partnership areas Delegation visits dev't projects by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Executive Mayor of the City of Johannesburg, Amos Masondo, who is leading the South African delegation here on a three-day official visit, emphasized on the need for exploring more partnership areas to foster Johannesburg-Addis Ababa Partnership (JAAP) Programme. Following briefings the delegation received on Micro, Small-scale Enterprises (MSE) and visit to a model low-cost housing and neighborhood projects in different areas of the metropolis, the executive Mayor told the Herald that the two cities have a lot to learn from each other. "We have already have a sisterly agreement with Addis Ababa City Administration that sticks to address issues of poverty, economic development and cultural exchanges and specific attention is needed to ensure the transformation of this agreement into practice," Masondo said. After commending the progress made regarding cooperation, especially in relation to administration and information system, the Executive Mayor indicated urbanization and migration as the main problems of Addis Ababa which are in most cases similar to other cities, "Consolidating the good ideas shared would have a great importance in improving the quality of life of their residences," he added. Micro and Small Enterprises Development Manager with the Addis Ababa City Administration, Yohannes Solomon told the delegation that the City Administration is doing its level best to promoting this sector especially in construction, metal and woodwork, clothing, food processing and municipal activities. According to the manager, some 98,000 residents have benefited from the 44 million birr the City Administration provided in loan and aid last year. For this fiscal year, 250 million birr has already been allocated to benefit 150,000 people engaged in this sector, he said. After explaining the comparative advantage of the sector especially its labour intensive nature and the provision of products at an affordable prices, he indicated lack of capital, technological know-how and information as the main obstacles facing the enterprise. The delegates also visited the Bole/Gerji pilot low-cost housing project backed by the German Technical Cooperation, and 2.3 kms pavement roads and toilets constructed with community participation in Kebeles 01 and 19 of the Kirkos Sub-city at a cost of around 1.2 million birr. ======================== pol.Ethiopia Oct. 6, 2004 ================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 7 13:48:35 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041007114835.53003.qmail@web53304.mail.yahoo.com> Tony Blair arrives here Blair says Commission for Africa is about concrete actions to address Africa's problems by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Minister Tony Blair said the purpose of the Commission for Africa was to deal with in a comprehensive manner the fundamental problems besetting the continent and take concrete actions in partnership with Africans to address the problems. "The Commission's work is not simply to enlarge our understanding of Africa's problems but to pave the way for meaningful actions that will help get the problems resolved," said Mr. Blair in a press conference he gave along with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi at the National Palace later yesterday. Prime Minister Blair said Africa's problems related to debt, aid, trade, governance and conflict resolution need to be dealt with through the active involvement of Africans themselves and should be acted upon in a joint venture. "The Commission for Africa is a partnership arrangement in which we need to do certain things and African countries need to do certain things. It has to be a partnership between equals, no longer a relationship of donor and recipient," he said. Blair said that the Commission would not duplicate existing initiatives like NEPAD, which, he said, also promotes partnership. The Commission for Africa should support the NEPAD process by making sure that the developed world fulfils its commitments, he added. Prime Minister Meles on his part said that the establishment of the Commission would help the NEPAD process moves forward. "If I were to advise him [Blair] about how to most effectively support NEPAD, I would ask him to establish the Commission for Africa that he has already formed," Meles said. Prime Minister Blair reaffirmed his commitment to put Africa high on the agenda by next year when his country takes over the presidencies of both the European Union and the G8. "We have high hopes, and I believe that these hopes can be fulfilled, he added. Asked about the implementation process of the action plan expected to be produced by the Commission, Blair said he would take the document to the G8 Summit for endorsement. The African Union would also look into the proposal and forward its views, he added. "What I am concerned about here is not just coming up with such proposals but making sure that I am there all the way through its implementation," said Mr. Blair who personally took the initiative to establish the Commission. Prior to the press conference, Meles and Blair exchanged views on the bilateral relations between Ethiopia and Britain as well as on other regional issues. Prime Minister Tony Blair arrived here later yesterday to attend the second meeting of Commission for Africa to be opened today. Prime Minister Meles and other senior government officials welcomed Blair upon arrival at Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. Similarly, Tanzanian President Benjamin Mkapa, who is also one of the Commissioners, arrived here yesterday to attend the meeting. Meles and other officials welcomed President Mkapa. Meles calls for fairer trade to have fighting chance ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi has called for fairer trade terms for Ethiopian in 'Doha trade round'. Meles told the BBC in an interview Tuesday that progress on the Doha round of trade negotiations would be uppermost in his mind. "Because in the long run, we can only trade our way out of poverty and the rules of the game are stacked against us. And we would like to see a fairer trading environment so that we can have a fighting chance. Asked when dependence on food aid would change, Meles said, "We are beginning to change that and we have a plan to completely overcome that problem within a period of three to five years. We have carried out one year of implementation of that programme and the performance has been quite good. We have had double digit growth of our economy last year. We expect similar growth this coming year. And if we could sustain that for two or three more years, we should be out of the woods." Meles said: "In the case of food aid, we are asking our partners not to give the farmers free food, but to make sure that people who can work for it, do work for it. And the food aid is used to ensure that these people do not come back to seek food aid at a latter stage." Asked if, in the interest of peace, it would not be better to agree with the ruling of the Boundary Commission, Meles said: "If this giving of land were to be a guarantee for peace, perhaps, but my argument is that if we are going to have completely unworkable boundary between Ethiopia and Eritrea, and I would divide a single house between two countries. I would suggest that such a boundary is a recipe for war." Some people are talking about war again this winter? Meles was asked, and answered, "If there is, it is not going to be started by Ethiopia. Ethiopia will never start another war with Eritrea. That is for sure." British Prime Minister Tony Blair yesterday began a four-day visit to Africa to underline the developing world's concerns to find lasting solutions to the continent's problems especially on trade, aid and debt. After meeting officials in the Sudanese capital Khartoum, he would pray a central role in the British sponsored Commission for Africa, which is meeting in Ethiopia, the BBC said. House decides to hold plebiscite along Oromia, Somali common borders soon ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation decided to hold the plebiscite aimed at determining the status of the 463 localities along the common borders of the Oromia and Somali states soon. The House passed the decision during its session yesterday after holding talks jointly and separately with chief administrators of the two states. The chief administrations of the two states have reached an agreement to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. Previously, it was agreed to hold the plebiscite in 448 localities, according to the Speaker of the House of the Federation. He, however, said questions were forwarded by the states to include 15 localities in the plebiscite, adding that the chief administrators of the two states have agreed to hold the plebiscite in a peaceful manner. The House passed the decision to include the 15 localities in the plebiscite after a thorough discussion with a majority vote. Of the 83 members of the House, three were against the motion. The House also decided the National Electoral Board would present the result for approval and the House would hold an extraordinary meeting. The House also decided the Speaker monitor the plebiscite process and presents a report back to the House on questions that may be raised by the people. Premier confers with Chadian Minister ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopia and Chad should work to consolidate their cooperation in the economy, training, transport and transfer of knowledge areas for the mutual benefit of the peoples of the two countries, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said yesterday. During talks held with the Chadian Minister of Public Works and Transportation Adoum Younousmi, the Prime Minister said it was the interest of Ethiopia to strengthen its economic relations with other African countries as well. Ethiopian has strong ties with many countries through the South-South Cooperation, he said adding that his country was keen to work with African countries in the sharing of experiences, as the problems affecting the livelihoods of the people in the continent are very much similar. Chad has shown interest to benefit from the training and maintenance section of the Ethiopian Airlines that has been flown to many African countries, according to an official with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the discussion. The Chadian Minister during his stay here was expected to visit various institutions in Ethiopia. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.7,2004 ============================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 8 15:21:47 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041008132147.82118.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 8, 2004 We cannot afford to stand by and watch Africa get left behind, says Blair by Getahun Amogne ADDIS ABABA - British Prime Ministry Tony Blair said the developed world could not afford to stand by and watch Africa face the risk of being left behind as what happens in Africa also affects the rest of the world. "Armed with the evidence from the Commission for Africa about what Africa needs and what has held back progress in the past, I want to turn international attention on Africa into international action to help the continent beat poverty and end conflict," said Blair in his 'Africa Speech' delivered at the opening here yesterday of the second meeting of the Commission for Africa. Most Africa countries are still as poor as they were 40 years ago, the Prime Minister said, adding that in some countries life expectancy, having improved for many years, has fallen back to what it was in the 1950s as a result of AIDS. "Next year will be a year of decision for Africa and the rest of the world," Mr. Blair said referring to the time when UK will hold the G8 and EU presidencies and the completion of the Commission's document. "The price for failure will be disaster for Africa. The prize for success will be an Africa standing proud in its own right the international community." Prime Minister Blair also said that poverty and instability in the continent leads to weak states, which can become havens for terrorists and other criminals. They could go undisturbed by weak governments while they plan their next attack, he added. "The international community must allow African countries the space to determine their own paths to development agreed amongst their own people," he said. "Countries should not be forced to sign up to policies which they do not believe will work because a donor thinks they will," he added. Blair also underscored the need for donors to coordinate their development assistance. He mentioned the encouraging results witnessed in Mozambique where 14 donors and the World Bank were supporting common policies set by the government and agreed with donors. The Prime Minister further indicated that the African Union was already showing how important it would be, particularly on governance and security issues. He also expressed support for the Peer Review Mechanism of NEPAD for which 23 sub-Saharan African countries have singed so far. HIV/AIDS has already been undoing much of the progress that has been made in combating poverty in Africa in the last 20 years, he said and added, "If we can help Africa to stop progressing undone by disease and conflict, Africa grows. But in order to achieve the MDGs in Africa by 2015, progress needs to be much faster." Prime Minister Blair also said that the UK has more than doubled its aid budget to Africa since 1997 and would reach the UN target of 0.7 per cent GDP contribution in 2013. Britain would increase aid directly for Africa to one billion Pound Sterling next year, he indicated. In a press conference Mr. Blair, Prime Minister Meles and two other commissioners gave later in the afternoon, they disclosed that they had dwelt at length the work done so far since the first meeting in the areas of governance, peace and security, aid, education and culture, among others. Meles described the commissioners' closed session meeting as very fruitful, which, he said, were helpful for future undertakings. "The discussion was held in a spirit of partnership rather than in the donor-recipient manner," he added. Prime Minister Blair also commended Ethiopia's development and democratization efforts saying that there was now much progress as compared to what it had been some years back. Asked about donors' response to Ethiopia's food security programme, Meles said the programme has based itself on the abundant labour and resources the country has not just donor assistance. "We believe that we can ensure food security with or without donors. Donor assistance is supplementary that would help expedite the overall progress of the programme," Meles said. The Commission for Africa will continue its session today in open debate sessions with the African civil society. The commissioners will have the opportunity to discuss their work directly with the civil society particularly with women and young Africans. Earlier on the day, Prime Minister Blair visited the Eyerusalem Children's and Community Development Organization at Debre Zeit town, about 42 km east of Addis, where he met people living with HIV/AIDS, orphans and visited other projects of the organization. Blair expressed his government's support to community based HIV/AIDS prevention activities. Meanwhile, Mayor of the Addis Ababa City Administration, Arkebe Equbai presented the city's key to Blair in ceremony held at AU Headquarters. Blair thanked for the gift and the hospitality he has been accorded with in his stay here. Prime Minister Tony Blair left for London later yesterday. Prime Minister Meles and other officials saw off Blair at Bole International Airport. House decides budgetary subsidy bill be submitted at its second regular session Afar, Somali states appeal for more seats ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of the Federation has decided that the draft on budgetary subsidy for states be submitted at its second regular session. It has endorsed its 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. The House decided the 1997 E.C. budgetary subsidy allocations to be enforced as per the amended formula of the 1996 E.C. as the new budgetary subsidy bill has not been enforced in line with the timetable. It said, failure to submit the new budgetary subsidy formula in the House's second session would create difficulty in budgetary subsidy allocations for the year 1998 E.C. The House concluded its first 1997 E.C. regular session after endorsing the 2nd term performance report of the 1996 E.C. Meanwhile, representatives of the Afar and Somali states told the House of the Federation yesterday that their representations to the seat of the Federal Parliament are incommensurate with the total population of the two states. They said the National Electoral Board used the census of the 1976 E.C. as its benchmark for deciding the constituencies instead of the census of 1987 E.C. The decision of the board to use the census of 1976 was illegal and inconsistent with the provision stipulated in the Constitution, they said. The House decided the National Electoral Board to come up with sufficient and convincing answers for the questions raised by the two states to its next extraordinary session due to be held soon. Meles inaugurates international leather trade fair ADDIS ABABA becomes AFLI seat by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday inaugurated a leather and leather products trade fair that brought 269 exhibitors from Africa and other international companies at the UN/ECA compound. Meles visited several stalls where wet blue hides and skin, finished and semi-finished leather, raw materials, chemicals materials, components, accessories and finished products are being exhibited. The three-day trade fair targeted manufacturers of foot wear, leather goods, clothing, luggage, accessories and other items, machinery and chemical buyers and tanners as well as buyers of finished products. Some 89 from the host country, 125 African and 55 international exhibitors took part in the trade fair. Meanwhile, the African Federation of Leather Allied Industries (AFLAI) Board members decided that Addis be its seat. Ethiopian Tanners, Footwear and Leather Garments Manufacturers Association Board Chairman, Bedada Chali, told journalists that for Ethiopia is the number one skin producer in Africa, and its capital the headquarters of AU, UN/ECA and the regional offices of many UN agencies, AFLI Board members where convinced to reach at the decision. AFLI is the largest institution representing professionals in the African leather trade and allied industries established to facilitate technology and market, organize trade fairs and training sessions, optimize the setting up of joint ventures and partnership between companies, it was learnt. President meets Action Aid Chief Executive, UNDP Resident Coordinator ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis yesterday met Chief Executive of Action Aid International Ramesh Singh and Action Aid Goodwill Ambassador Emma Thompson. Thompson, a celebrated actress with Oscar-winning mid 1990s work in such films as Howards End and Sense and Sensibility, has been on a ten-day working visit to Ethiopia since 3 October 2004. President Girma briefed singh and Thompson about the activities the government has been implementing to change the lives of the people for the better in the political, economy and social sectors. Girma also briefed the visitors on the efforts the government has exerted over the past years in the expansion of infrastructure facilities, including electric power supply, according to an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting. President Girma commended the development interventions Action Aid has launched in ten states in Ethiopia, and called on the organization to strengthen its development support. Singh on the occasion assured the President of Action Aid's commitment to enhance its interventions in environmental protection, HIV/AIDS and food security. Thompson took the occasion to exchange views with the President about the measures that need to be taken to curb the impact that entailed coffee price deflation. Looking at the coffee price impact on households in the Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples State was one of the purposes of Thompson's visit. Action Aid will move ahead by integrating its development interventions with gender-friendly activities Thompson said. Thompson is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi on 9 October, according to a press release Action Aid had sent to ENA earlier. "…The visit is expected to give her (Emma Thompson) better understanding of the poverty situation and the level of response in the country as well as Action Aid Ethiopia's contribution towards addressing the issue. "This would help her to carry her observation for wider audiences," the release said. Meanwhile, President Girma has called on the UN Development Programme (UNDP) to enhance its support for Ethiopia in the areas of poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS and environmental protection. President Girma made the call yesterday during an audience with UNDP Resident Coordinator Modibo Toure. Girma called on Toure to exert efforts toward the enhancement of UNDP's project in Ethiopia. The activities UNDP has been carrying out in the area of support in food security and employment generation should be intensified through consultations with beneficiary communities, an official of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs who attended the meeting quoted Girma as saying. ========================================= Pol.ethiopia Oct.8,2004 ======================= _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 14 11:17:51 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041014091751.62773.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 12, 2004 4th African Development Forum opens Forum puts good governance at centre of development by Getachew Dibaba ADDIS ABABA - Good governance is a prerequisite and critical condition to put Africa on the path of development, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. "Without good governance and the full respect of the democratic rights of citizens and all sectors of the society, it would be impossible to put in place conditions for durable peace and stability," Meles said. The Premier made the remark here yesterday at the opening of the 4th African Development Forum, which is being held at the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA) under the theme 'Governance for a Progressing Africa.' Political history of the continent clearly demonstrated that without durable peace and stability, there could be no development to speak of, Meles said. Executive Secretary of ECA, K.Y. Amoako, on his part reiterated that improvements in governance, human rights, peace and security are the necessary preconditions for sustainable human development in Africa. "Good governance promotes economic efficiency through equitable rules, by promoting fair and well-functioning markets. It curtails corruption and ensures the fair delivery of services," he said. The Executive Secretary also pointed out the crucial role of good governance in ensuring the participation of every sector of the society, coping with the challenges of HIV/AIDS and fostering investment. Amoako further stressed the need for the existence of highly active and progressive states to address multifarious problems of the continent. "As we seek effective ways to meet our challenges, we are consistently drawn back to one major focus: the need for capable state," he said. Expressing concern over Africa's fragile economic performance, which is well below what is required to meet the Millennium Development Goals, he underlined the paramount importance of placing good governance high on the agenda of development." There is a fear that the gains of recent years could slip back, and that further gains could be jeopardized," he said. Amoako also urged the African states to create an enabling environment for the active participation of the youth who make up half of Africa's unemployed while dealing with economic reform and national policies. The Executive Secretary also lauded the commitment of African countries to good governance for they show increasing interest to involve in the African Peer Review Mechanism, which is designed to review countries' performance on governance issue. "Twenty-three countries, representing 75 per cent of African population, have agreed to take part in the process," he indicated. Recalling NEPAD's Democracy and Governance Initiative, which is based on the premise that development is impossible in the absence of true democracy, respect for human rights, peace and good governance, he called for the commitment of African countries for the success through involving public and private sector stakeholders and ensuring transparency and accountability. Citing ECA's groundbreaking 28-country study on "measuring and Monitoring Progress towards Good Governance," the Executive Secretary on the occasion revealed that governance is getting better in the continent. "The situation across the continent is markedly different from just a decade ago. People believe that their political peace is being liberalized. They tell us that human rights and the rule of law are more widely respected and that the media and civil society are advancing. Women's participation in the political process has increased markedly in several countries," he said. He, however, pointed out that important areas need to be strengthened to further improve good governance. According to Amoako, parliamentary capacity, legal and judicial reforms, public sector management, credible and responsible media and the environment for the private sector, among others, are areas that show capacity deficits, even in countries making good progress. The five-day forum would examine and debate ways of improving governance in Africa today. Meanwhile, an exhibition displaying activities of about 50 local and international organizations was opened at the ECA yesterday. October 13, 2004 Global Fund makes 640 mln. USD support to Ethiopia ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Director-General of the Global Fund for HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria said the Fund has made a 640 million USD support to Ethiopia. The Director-General, Professor Ricahrd Feachem made the remark while conferring with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi here yesterday. He also told journalists after the talks that the stated amount of money would be used for the prevention and treatment of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria in the next five years. He said Ethiopia is given priority among the 130 countries in the world in which the Global Fund has launched prevention activities against the stated diseases. The Director-General has also assured Meles that the Fund's assistance towards the prevention of HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria would continue in the years ahead. Feachem said priority should be given to the effective and appropriate utilization of the stated amount of money for intended programmes. Meles assured Feachem on his part that the fund would be used immediately and appropriately for the programmes launched against HIV/AIDS, TB and malaria. UNAIDS Director-General Peter Piot who also held separate talks with Prime Minister Meles yesterday, said that the encouraging achievements gained in containing the spread of HIV/AIDS in Addis Ababa should further (Global P.7 President awarded UNAIDS' Medal ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - President Girma Wolde-Giorgis was awarded a UNAIDS' Medal for his outstanding contribution made in the fight against HIV/AIDS. UNAIDS Director General Peter Piot handed out the medal at a special ceremony held here yesterday at the UN Conference Centre (UNCC). Speaking on the occasion Piot expressed appreciation to the personal efforts of President Girma to contain the spread of HIV/AIDS in the country. He also assured the President that UNAIDS' support to Ethiopia would further be strengthened in the years ahead to enable it contain the spread of HIV/AIDS. President Girma said on his part he would continue and strengthen his personal efforts toward the prevention and control of the pandemic. He also mentioned that the government has been implementing an HIV/AIDS intervention activity to prevent the spread of the infection. President Girma said HIV/AIDS was on corporated in the country's health extension package, which is being implemented at the grass roots level. Priority has been given to HIV/AIDS prevention activities by religious organizations and society at large, he said. World Bank Vice-President commends Ethiopia's strive to meeting MDGs by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Chief Economist and Senior Vice-President of the World Bank, Francois Bourguignon, said that Ethiopia is accomplishing commendable jobs to meeting the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and remarkable achievements have been registered in different areas that put the country one in the top list in the developing countries. Briefing local journalists and foreign correspondents at Sheraton Addis yesterday, the chief economist indicated that given the right amount of aid from donor countries and good management of debt, the country for sure could meet the MDGs. Ethiopia is undertaking promising activities especially in the areas of governance, education, health, rural development and sanitation among others, he said, and went on to state that the World Bank would do its level best in the deepening of the scaling up process of the activities so as to accelerate the development and attain the MDG by the year 2015. He also underscored the need for improving the country's communication sector, banking system and tax administration to attract more investors and meet the needs of the society. Information obtained on the occasion also indicated that the Sustainable Development and Poverty Reduction Programme (SDPRP) finalized in July 2002 aims at broad institution and structural reform to speed up the pace of growth, to distribute the gains to poor people and also accelerate progress towards meeting the MDGs. According to a development progress paper, Ethiopia has embarked on an impressive reform and development, though much more needs to be done in attaining the MDGs. Likewise, gross school enrollment increased from 33 per cent in 1990 to over 64 per cent in 20000, total adult literacy rose from 28 per cent in 1990 to 40 per cent in 2001 and total youth literacy increased from 42 per cent in 1990 to 56 per cent in 2001. In addition, GDP per capita grew an average 5.6 per decreased from 128 per 1000 in 1990 to 116 in 2002. The World Bank's Country Assistance Strategy (CAS) for Ethiopia, covering FY 2003-05, which is based on the governments SDPRP, focuses on human development outcomes, enhancing pro-poor growth and reducing vulnerability, the paper added. October 14, 2004 Meles meets His Royal Osei II of Ashante Leaves for Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi yesterday met His Royal Majesty Opumfuo Osei II of Ashante Ghana. The Discussions between the two parties centered on ways of strengthening the South-South Cooperation. Prime Minister Meles and His Royal Majesty Osei recognized the amicable long standing relations between Ethiopia and Ghana. They said it would be beneficial for the two countries to enhance cooperation in the economy and cultural fields, according to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His Royal Majesty Osei is here to attend the Africa Development Forum IV (ADF IV). He presented a paper on traditional governance at the Forum. Meanwhile, a high level Ethiopian delegation led by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi left for Budapest, Hungary yesterday to attend the meeting of progressive governance. Upon departure at the Bole International Airport, senior government officials saw off the Prime Minister. The Budapest meeting was the continuation of that was held in London, England. Residents register for plebiscite ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Office of the National Electoral Board said that voter registration for the plebiscite to determine the status of the disputed localities along the common borders of Oromia and Somali states is in progress. Office Deputy Head Teasfaye Megesha told ENA yesterday that people in the 641 localities, where the plebiscite would be held, have been registered in a remarkable turnout. He, however, said some kebele and woreda officials were not cooperative and even failed to provide leadership as expected. A joint committee for the purpose has enabled to address some of the problems identified in the process of voter registration, he said. ============================ Pol.ethiopia Oct.14,2004 ================= __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 15 14:30:31 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041015123031.89443.qmail@web53308.mail.yahoo.com> October 15, 2004 President elect Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed, Somalis can count on support of Ethiopia: Meles ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The inauguration of Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed as President of Somalia heralds a new beginning of national reconciliation is Somalia and the end of Somalis statelessness, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said. Reading out the message of Prime Minister Meles at the inauguration of the new President yesterday in Nairobi, Kenya, Foreign Minister Seyoum said the occasion was a major landmark and a turning point in the history of the people of the sub region. We have always known that durable peace and stability in the region had to wait the rebirth of the Somalia State, Meles said in his message. The countries of the region have managed at last to stand behind the people of Somalia in unison in full solidarity. Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed is a person who has proved to be formidable… He is a Somali patriot who has always stood for principles never flinching no matter how difficult the challenges, he said. He said, I am extremely proud to have had with this proud son of the people of Somalia an enduring friendship based on a clear understanding of the mutual interests of our peoples and that of the peoples of our sub region. He said, as the new government would begin everything from ground zero, the support of the international community is imperative. The support becomes indispensable not only in the interest of Somalia, it is also in the vital interest of the whole international community that Somalia is regenerated and the rule of law is restored in the country and that Somalia joins the community if nations with all state institutions put in place, he said. The Prime Minister said our friend President Abdulahi Yusuf Ahmed and the people of Somalia can always count on Ethiopia to stand with them shoulder-to-shoulder as they proceed to lift the Somali State from the ashes. Meles also urged the United Nations, the African Union and the League of the Arab States and other organizations to do whatever is possible to ensure that the new government is installed in Mogadishu as speedily as possible. Progressive Governance meeting opens in Hungary ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance meeting in which several leaders from various countries in the world including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi is attending opened yesterday evening in Balaton, Hungary. The two-day meeting, which is being held in closed session, is expected to deliberate on Europe's future progressive politics, among others. The meeting is also expected to deliberate on the challenges and aspirations of progressive politics with the aim of exchanging ideas, experiences, and best practices that will help in the development of progressive solutions towards the problems experienced worldwide. Hosted by Hungarian Prime Minister Ferenc Gyursany, the meeting is being attended by British Prime Minister Tony Blair, German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, South African President Thabo Mbeki and leaders of several other countries. Some 150 leaders from around the world, policy makers and politicians are also in attendance at the meeting. State Minister says capital goods leasing is an alternative financial instrument by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA - State Minister of Trade and Industry said that international experience indicates that Capital Goods Leasing is used in many parts of the world as an alternative financial instrument to minimize problems in the sector, particularly to satisfying investment requirement. Opening a half-day International Finance Corporation (IFC) Seminar on Leasing in Ethiopia at Sheraton Addis yesterday, Tadesse Haile said that recognizing the significance of the industrial sector in general and the manufacturing sector in particular, the Government of Ethiopia has adopted an Industrial Development Strategy which considers the prime importance of the private sector as an engine of growth. The State Minister added that the government is exerting every possible effort to create favourable environment for the private sector in line with the strategy. He further indicated that the development of the sector in this country was facing various problems access to both short and long-term financing being one of the major constraints. According to him, the Government of Ethiopia promulgated Capital Goods Leasing Business Proclamation No. 130/1998 and the associated directives since 1997. Realizing the slow development of the leasing industry, his ministry development has initiated a study to look into the proclamation and directives. A press release obtained from IFC indicates that leasing, as a financial tool, can play a significant role in economic growth fostering advance in production and broadening spectrum in the financial market. It provides medium-term to long-term financing which is vital to investments, according to the release. The release also said that successful leasing promotion requires constructive partnerships among governmental local commercial institutions and international organizations. Officials of IFC said that the mission of the Corporation is to promote sustainable private sector investment in developing countries, helping to reduce poverty and improve peoples' lives. They also said IFC finances private sector investment in the developing world, mobilize capital in the international financial market, and provides technical assistance and advice to governments and businesses. The seminar was attended by the government, local financial institutions, the business community, insurance companies, consulting companies and business support institutions. ===================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.15,2004 =========================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Express yourself with Y! Messenger! Free. Download now. http://messenger.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Tue Oct 19 11:04:27 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041019090427.72436.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 16, 2004 Swedish Ambassador lauds Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme Diplomatic ties golden jubilee to be marked Oct. 19 by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson has commended Ethiopia's poverty reduction programme reaffirming his government's readiness to further increase its assistance. Briefing journalists in connection with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties at the embassy yesterday, the ambassador appreciated Ethiopia's commitment to combating poverty and ensure food security. "Last year, Ethiopia and Sweden signed a new development cooperation agreement where we our doubling are development where we our doubling are development cooperation to Ethiopia. We did it because we trust the Ethiopian Government and its ability to further open up the country politically and economically. We did it because we know that the Ethiopian Government takes its task of combating poverty very seriously and has very good poverty reduction programme that we base our cooperation on," the ambassador said. As to the ambassador, Ethiopia also has a very dynamic civil society that would really bring about a real difference for the poor with the support of the international community. His government, according to the ambassador is working with Ethiopia in the areas of education, health, rural development, humanitarian assistance, forestry, human rights and democracy, private sector development, justice sector reform as well as research cooperation among others. Marking the Golden Jubilee of the diplomatic ties between the two countries, a seminar on education, a photo exhibition as well as buffet-reception with Daniel Lemma (Ethiopian born Swedish) and the Cherry Bombs, a Swedish jazz band would take place in Addis Ababa on October 19,2004. The first ever Swedish development cooperation agreement with any country in the world was signed with Ethiopia in 1954 aimed at establishing the Building College in Addis Ababa. Sweden has allocated 500 million birr for this year of which 120 million would go for direct budgetary support, he said. Ambassador further indicated that Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia over the past 50 years is estimated to reach 13 billion birr. UN Humanitarian Envoy to arrive here today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - UN Humanitarian Envoy Martti Ahtisaari will make a three-day visit to Ethiopia to review progress in breaking the cycle of hunger and poverty, AFP said quoting the United Nations Thursday. It said the former Finnish president will be making his fourth trip to Ethiopia since his designation in June 2003 as the Special Envoy of UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan concerned with the humanitarian crisis in the Horn of Africa. Ahtisaari, who will arrive today, will review the humanitarian situation in Ethiopia and measures taken by the government and relief agencies to break the cycle of hunger and poverty. He would meet Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, government officials, humanitarian agencies and international donors representatives. The number of people relying on emergency food assistance now stands at 7.8 million, and almost 1.2 million tonnes of emergency food and non-food assistance valued at 85 million dollars is needed overall for Ethiopia this year, it said. A report of the Joint Evaluation of the Response to the 2002-2003 Emergency in Ethiopia is to be released to next Monday, according to AFP. African countries urged to institute, strengthen affirmative action policies ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Participants of the 7th African Regional Conference on Women said African countries should institute and strengthen affirmative action policies and programmes aimed at increasing women's and girl's access and retention in order to address gender imbalances in education and training. They said the affirmative action may include scholarship at all levels for female students, distance and non-formal education and literacy programmes for women, innovative and aggressive strategies to redress the under representation of women and girls in the sciences. In a statement they issued at the conclusion of the meeting here Thursday, the participants said in order to reach the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and other targets on reducing maternal mortality and morbidity, governments in collaboration with NGOs and the private sector should provide accessible sexual and reproductive health care services and education for women and girls. The statement said given the importance of communication and speed, with which information and communication technology (ICT) evolves, it is important that the region adopt and implement gender-aware media policies. It also said African governments should adopt gender-responsive policies, programmes, strategies and measures on environment. Success of creating conducive investment climate depends on ensuring good governance: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Ministry of Information said in its weekly statement issued yesterday, that the activities of countries to harness their natural resources to the benefit of their citizens are expanding and acquiring momentum. Most countries are engaged in fierce competition to maximize their share from the global investment flow, the statement said. Accordingly, it is important for the nation to exert maximum effort to attract investors, who engage in various activities to develop the untapped resources in our country, the statement added. According to the statement, it is true that tremendous measures have been taken to promote investment since the adoption of the free market economic system in the country. The provision of Civil Service Reform Programme (CSRP), the designation of plots of land for investment activities in urban and rural areas, are the major steps taken to ensure fundamental changes in the country, the statement underlined. As a result, such an effort was confirmed by the World Investment Report of the United Nation Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) launched in Addis Ababa on Sep.4 2004, which has rated our country as one of the countries that have created ideal investment environments in the world, the statement said. October 17, 2004 Progressive Governance Summit concludes issuing joint communiqué ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Progressive Governance Summit attended by 14 heads of state and government in Budapest, Hungary, including Prime Minister Meles Zenawi concluded its two-day session Friday issuing a joint communiqué. The participants of the summit declared in their communiqué to promote openness, tolerance, mutual respect, inclusion and solidarity. They stated their resolve to advance progressive polices within the global and regional institutions and pledged to honour the commitments made in the institutions and to encourage others to do the same. An open and fair-rules based on global economic and trade system can assist everyone to benefit from globalization, supported by regional and international cooperation, they said. "We encourage international financial institutions to become even more responsive to the imperatives of poverty reduction, social stability and to ease the burden of heavily indebted poor countries and economies in the transition." They also agreed to examine the reasons behind the failure to meet some of the development goals set and reinforce those of the Monterrey Consensus to promote national and global economic system based on the principles of justice, equity, democracy, participation, transparency, accountability and inclusion. The participants of the summit welcomed the recent initiatives of the United Nations to fight hunger and poverty. With regard to globalization, the participants said they pledged to ensure all their citizens to have access to decent and stable employment by providing an economic environment that supports job creations. "Progressive governments understand that the fruits of growth must generate the wealth necessary for investment in human capital, social mobility and cohesion." They said it was important for the progressives to empower the individual to take more control of their own lives-fighting poverty, expanding opportunity, social mobility, personal responsibility and developing power closer to citizens. A comprehensive approach including bordering development aid facilitating access to markets, creating an enabling environment for companies and promoting good governance is indispensable for sustainable development and would strengthen international cohesion as well as social development. Progressive governments condemn terrorism in all its forms and support international efforts to combat its existence and spread, they said. They said multiple threats including international terrorism, regional conflicts, and proliferations of weapons of mass destructions, environmental degradation and the pandemics like HIV/AIDS impact on all the countries. The participants of the summit also looked into the situation of Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, the Middle East, Haiti, Sudan and the Korean peninsula. At the invitation of the South African President, the leaders agreed to hold the next progressive governance summit in that country. Meanwhile, at the end of the summit Prime Minister Meles Zenawi told a press conference that developed countries should deliver the pledges they made to support the development endeavours of the poor countries. He said the support of the international community was vital for the developing countries to reduce poverty and seeped up development endeavours. The Prime Minister said developing countries should take concrete steps that could facilitate ways for development, debt concellation, trade and attract the flow of foreign investment, among others. During his stay in Hungary, Prime Minister Meles met and held discussions with his Hungarian counterpart on ways of consolidating the bilateral cooperation between the two countries. The delegation led by the Prime Minister Meles returned home late Friday night. Meles, Wolfensohn visit farmers' lentil production activities ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and World Bank President James Wolfensohn yesterday visited the activities of the farmers engaged in lentil production in Gimbichu Woreda of East Shoa Zone, Oromia State. Briefing the high profile visitors, representatives of the farmers said lentil production, which they have engaged in through the extension programme using improved technologies, is already paying off. They said the yield per hectare has been going up since they have begun employing frost-resistant seeds and receiving support from the development agents (DAs) the government has deployed in support of their lentil production activities. Our lentil crops used to shrivel frequently by frost, they said recalling the hard times they endured through before the launching of the extension programme. Accordingly, the yield per hectare now grows to 20 quintals from 15 or less previously, they indicated. They told Meles and Wolfensohn that their lives have steadily been improving with the farmers replacing thatched huts with more comfortable houses. According to the farmers, through their lentil production activities, many others have been getting access to employments at the increasing number of lentil processing mills. They said they would not have reached this level without the support of the government. During the visit, discussion was held with Gimbichu cabinet members about the 1996 E.C. performance and future plans. One of the good security strategies of the Ethiopian Government has been providing support to household farmers to engage in the production of marketable agricultural items, including horticultural products, apiary, and dairy products, among others. October 19, 2004 Ethiopian Embassy working to attract investment, trade ADDIS ABABA (ENA) Ethiopian Ambassador to five European countries said her embassy has attached priority attention to the enhancement of trade and investment cooperation with Eastern European countries. Ambassador Halima Mohammed, who is accredited as Ethiopian Ambassador to Austria, Hungary, Romania, Slovak and Bulgaria told journalists in Budapest last week that her embassy, based in Vienna, will pay attention to attracting investors from Eastern European countries to Ethiopia. The embassy earlier had been preoccupied with the task of forging cooperation with UN agencies and other international organizations based in Vienna, she said. The chief activity of the embassy now is attracting trade and investment to Ethiopia and finding markets to Ethiopia's exports to Europe, she said. In its endeavours to promote the image of Ethiopia and to attract investors, the embassy would join hands with Ethiopians residing in Eastern Europe, she indicated. She said it was through the efforts of the Ethiopians there that MATADOR, a Slovak Company, has been able to forge joint venture with Addis Tyre Factory. She said investors of Eastern European countries have shown interest to invest in Ethiopia, adding Austrian companies have already entered Ethiopia with joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts. Activities have been launched to enable investors from Eastern Europe to engage in coffee and leather and leather product investments, among others, according to Ambassador Halima. Meanwhile, she said, the number of tourists who are coming to Ethiopia from Eastern European countries was steadily increasing owing to promotional activities. She said more than 20 tourism operators from Austria have entered Ethiopia. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.19,2004 ======================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Wed Oct 20 13:11:18 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041020111118.90246.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 20, 2004 Ethiopia, China sign 10.5 mln. birr grant accord as 6th Joint Commission Session concludes President confers with Chinese Deputy Minister of Trade by Biniyam Wubishet ADDIS ABABA - Ethiopia and China yesterday signed a 10.5 million birr grant agreement and expressed their commitment to further consolidate their trade relation and bilateral cooperation while reviewing projects being implemented here by the latter. The agreement, singed by State Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr, Mulu Ketsela, and Chinese Vice Minister of Commerce Liao Xiaoqi, will be used to finance project costs that would be jointly identified by the two sides. Opening the sixth Ethio-China Joint Commission Session earlier in the day, Dr. Mulu indicated that over the last decade, the trade balance had been entirely in favour of China while Ethiopian export items were limited to agricultural products. "The current bilateral trade relation is encouraging, since a gradual progress in raising the quantity of Ethiopia's export products to China is being made; albeit at a very limited market share for Ethiopia's export." Dr. Mulu said. She also indicated that within the last two years several improvements have been made to make the investment climate more enabling. The number of sectors where investment was restricted to Ethiopians only has now been reduced and the time to set up and register a business has been decreased from months to hours thanks to the reform measures the Investment Commission effected, Dr. Mulu said. Moreover, she said an investment fund for exporters has been set up and the government is making land available for investors with the establishment of industrial zones. The Joint Commission session, among others, discussed the performances of China-implemented projects. The Chinese Vice minister and his delegation indicated during the meeting that they want to further intensify their relation especially in vocational training. They also expressed their strong desire to engage in Ethiopia's telecommunications sector where a competent company would apply for the bidding. The Chinese delegation also said that Chinese companies would further work very hard to increase their efficiency and competence to win high confidence from the Ethiopian side. Different exchange of notes to conduct studies in the areas of road construction, industry and mineral resources; and an agreed minutes which stipulate the mutual understanding reached during the session were also signed. Meanwhile, President Girma Wolde-Giorgis has called on Chinese investors to engage in agriculture and textile investment sectors here ENA, reported. During talks here yesterday with the visiting Chinese Deputy Trade Minister Liao Xiaoqi, President Girma said such cooperation would further strengthen the economic cooperation between Ethiopia and China. Girma said there are a wide range of opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade and investment sectors. The relations between Ethiopia and China have been taken to a new height, he said, adding the agreements signed between the two countries same day will further cement the cooperation between the two countries. He called on Chinese investors to establish agricultural, textile and industrial investments in Ethiopia on their own or in joint ventures with Ethiopian counterparts, which he said would be greatly beneficial to both countries. He also called on the Government of China to enhance its support in the area of human resource development through training. Xiaoqi on his part said he has held constructive discussions with officials of the Ethiopian Government on issues pertinent to the enhancement of cooperation between the two countries. A Foreign Ministry Official who attended the meeting quoted Xiaoqi as saying that the visit made him well aware of the availability of wide opportunities for Ethio-China cooperation in the trade, investment and other sectors of the economy. Evaluation report commends effort launched to overcome 2002-03 drought ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The efforts exerted by the government and various humanitarian organizations to save the lives of 13 million people exposed to drought during the 2002/2003 were productive, according to a report. Evaluation of the response to the 2002-03 emergency report launched in the presence of the UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan special envoy for humanitarian crisis on the Horn of Africa Martti Ahtisaary and Commissioner Simon Mechale said it had been possible to provide over 1.5 million metric tons of relief to the affected people. The government, donor organizations, the UN specialized agencies, NGOs and international community have worked in close cooperation and consolations to help victims of the natural disaster. It said donors have also provided in donation non-food assistance to the people during the reported period. The Disaster Prevention and Preparedness Commission (DPPC) had used private transport enterprises to transport the relief from the port of Djibouti. The commission also established over 1,200 distribution centres to provide the much needed relief assistance to the needy. Some 46 therapeutic feeding centres were also established in the areas seriously affected by the drought to provide relief assistance to the over 20,000 children, according to the report. The report also suggested that it was imperative to keep in reserve a huge quantity of grain and seek ways to consolidate the financial capacity of the DDPC with a view to overcoming future disasters. EAL needs to pursue reform: CEO ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Chief Executive Officer of Ethiopian Airlines has indicated the need for the national carrier to pursue reform with a view to maintaining its competitiveness in the international aviation industry. Girma Wake made the remark here at Sheraton Addis yesterday at a meeting held to assess a study on Ethiopian's future operations. Ethiopian is exerting efforts to introduce new working systems geared toward enhancing its competitiveness in the aviation industry. He said competition in the aviation industry has come to be tougher with the rising fuel cost in the international market. Ethiopian, thus, need to pursue reforms that would enable it remains competitive in the aviation industry, which is becoming increasingly tougher. He said the 2003/2004 profit the Airlines made would not augur profitability now that the road to competitiveness is getting rough. EAL board members, including Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin attended the meeting. Ethiopian during 2003/2004 netted 31.7 million US dollar from air transport services. NEB offers training for coordinators of upcoming elections ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The National Electoral Board (NEB) offered a day-long training here yesterday to coordinators of the 2005 national and state elections. Candidates will begin electioneering beginning November, NEB Deputy Head Tesfaye Mengesha said. Voting will be conducted on 15 May 2005. NEB has made the necessary preparations in the process of elections, h said, adding that endorsement signature forms and other information will be made handy for private and party candidates. According to the timetable made public by the Board, candidates will be receiving endorsement signature forms at next-door education offices from 30 October 2004 to 6 January 2005. The coordinators will deliver the endorsement signature forms and other materials to the education offices in their respective constituencies, he indicated. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.20,2004 ========================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 22 13:53:42 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041022115342.17666.qmail@web53305.mail.yahoo.com> October 21, 2004 Results achieved in enhancing women's educational participation said promising by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - Education, Minister says Genet Zewdie that results achieved both in enhancing women's participation in education and to increasing their enrolment were promising. Opening the 4th Forum for Women's Education at the conference hall of the ministry yesterday, the minister indicated that in addition to the 4.4 per cent gross enrolment increase above the set target for the 1997 academic year, the gap between the two sexes in primary education has declined to 18 per cent. Accordingly the gross enrolment for both sexes has now reached 68.4 per cent surpassing the planned 64 per cent by the end of this academic year. Though the primary education is characterized by overage students problem, the net enrolment for the age groups 7-15 has reached 57 per cent out of which 51.8 per cent are women, she said. A five-year special curriculum has been designed to address the problem involving four million overage children throughout the country, the minister added. According to W/ro Genet, there is a plan to increase women's primary education enrolment to 80 per cent within five years, which would create a fertile ground mainly in transforming the agricultural sector and empowering and making them ready for short-term trainings. The enrolment of women has also reached 48 per cent in vocational and skill training centres and 29 per cent in higher institutions. Lauding the role of such forms, the minister also stressed on the need for the active participation of pertinent bodies and the society at large in addressing socio-economic problems hindering women's participation. The forum would assess the five year (1997-2002 E.C.) strategic plan of all states aimed at enhancing women's educational participation and also design a national implementation strategy for the same period. Over 300 women representing state women's affair, higher institutions, teachers and other women's associations are in attendance at the three-day forum. AU military chiefs discuss boosting Sudan force ADDIS ABABA (Reuters) - African military officers discussed the details of a plan to expand an African Union peacekeeping force in Sudan's Darfur region Monday, hoping to provide a more effective mission to monitor cease-fire breaches. A working paper circulated by AU officials at a meeting in the Ethiopian capital acknowledged that the current mission of 150 cease-fire monitors and 300 AU troops was too small to provide effective cover of a region the size of France. The paper, obtained by Reuters, proposed boosting the force by around 3,300 staff, comprised of 2,341 military personnel, 815 civilian police, 132 other civilian support staff and 32 staff to be stationed at AU headquarters in Addis Ababa. "The threat of raids and looting of villages remain significant. The number of civilians leaving their villages for the safety of IDP (Internally displaced people) camps continues to grow," the document said. "The population's lack of trust in the police and other government organizations is seen as a major obstacle to overcome the process of returning to normality," it said. The United Nations estimates 70,000 people have died of malnutrition and disease in Darfur, a figure the government disputes. The total does not include deaths due to violence because U.N. officials say reliable figures do not exist. The military chiefs gathered ahead of a scheduled meeting of AU's Peace and Security Council on October 20 to decide on the expanded duties and numbers of the Darfur force. AU Chairman Olusegun Obasanjo, the Nigerian President, said last week that the AU will begin deploying 4,000 more troops to Darfur, bringing the total to 4,500 by the end of November. It was not immediately clear why the number of extra troops differed from the figure suggested in the working paper. The document said an annual budget of up to $221 million would be required for the enhanced force to be deployed in Darfur, but did not say where the money would come from. An African diplomat working closely with the AU said the money could come out of the European Union's $312 million peace support fund, which it has placed under the AU's authority. Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties golder jubilee marked by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The golden jubillee of Ethio-Swedish diplomatic ties was marked Tuesday October 19, 2004 with various events organized at Sheraton Addis. Addressing a seminar that discussed cooperation between the two countries, State Minister of Finance and Economic Development Dr. Mulu Ketsela commended the various Swedish development assistance to Ethiopia. "Especially in the last two frameworks of our cooperation, we were able to enhance our bilateral consultations and witnessed noticeable change in the scope of Swedish involvement and skill assistance. It is in this period that we received over 1 billion birr for the period of five years," she said. Minister of Education Genet Zewdie, on her part appreciated Sweden's important role in the history of Ethiopia's modern education. "Nearly half of our primary schools have been built through Swedish assistance and the schools built in different parts of the country are indeed the monument of Swedish commitment to the people of Ethiopia." W/ro Genet also indicated that it was not only in terms of school construction that the education of this country benefited from Sweden. "We have received enormous support worth of millions of dollars in the provision of educational materials," the minister added. She also took the opportunity to call upon the Swedish Government to further strengthen its excellent cooperation and establish a strong partnership on mutual respect and support especially in the areas of capacity building in which education and training are its main component. Swedish Ambassador, Hakan Akesson said that his government's active partnership with to the Ethiopian Government emanates mainly from its commitment to establish good governance, combating poverty and backwardness and bring about rapid economic growth. As part of the programme, a photographic exhibition and a musical show was presented by the Cherry Bombs - a Swedish band including Ethiopian born Swedish Daniel Lemma. The Swedish community in Addis Ababa, government officials including President Girma Wolde-Giorgis, members of the diplomatic corps and other invited guests attended the programme. October 22, 2004 House endorses appointment of judges, bilateral accords ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed the appointment of four judges and two bilateral trade agreements. In its second Fifth Year Regular Session, the House endorsed the appointment of a judge for Federal High Court and three others for First Federal Instance Courts as presented by Prime Minister Meles Zenawi. The House also endorsed by acclamation the Ethio-Algeria and the Ethio-Libya Bilateral Trade Agreements, submitted by the Trade and Industry Standing Committee. The agreements are expected to enhance Ethiopia's trade ties with the two countries. The House has also referred the proclamation to ratify the agreement signed on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment between Ethiopia and Iran to the same Committee. The agreement would have a significant importance in bringing into foreign investment technology, administrative know-how and inflow of capital to Ethiopia. The House has also referred the Convention on the Prohibition of the Use, Stockpiling, Production and Transfer of Anti-Personnel Mines and on their Destruction Ratification to the Foreign, Defence and Security Affairs Standing Committee for further scrutiny. OPDP resolves to raise women's political representation during upcoming elections ADAMA (ENA) - The Oromo People's Democratic Organization (OPDO) has announced activities to raise women candidacy for the upcoming national elections by 30 to 50 per cent. In line with the resolution passed during OPDO's 5th organizational conference held recently, public consultations have now begun to nominate women election contestants with a view to boosting the limited political representation of women, OPDO Office Head Aberra Hailu told ENA. OPDP has launched activities to nominate competent women candidates in its bid to raising women representation at the parliament from 13 to 54 and that at the state council from 70 to 200, he said. OPDO members have been on the move to enable women to benefit fully from their right to elect and be elected as well as to nominate women contenders who meet criteria, he indicated. Raising the political representation of women is vital in view of their responsibilities in the society and their greater roles in the efforts geared towards ensuring sustainable development, he said. He expressed the commitment of OPDO to realize the resolution. ================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.22,2004 =================== _______________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Declare Yourself - Register online to vote today! http://vote.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Mon Oct 25 14:49:21 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041025124921.75120.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 23, 2004 Somali President arrives here ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed arrived here yesterday on a working visit. Foreign Minister Seyoum Mesfin and other senior government officials accorded him a warm-welcome upon arrival at the Addis Ababa Bole International Airport. While here, the Somali President will hold talks with Prime Minister Meles Zenawi and other government officials on issues of current affairs in Somalia. President Abdullahi is also to hold talks with the Peace and Security Council of the African Union enhancing peace and security in Somalia. He is also to meet and hold talks with EU Secretary-General Javier Solana, who was also to arrive here last evening. Axum Obelisk to be transported home next December ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Efforts aimed at transporting the Axum Obelisk from Italy to Ethiopia until the coming December are well underway, Youth, Sports and Culture Minister Teshome Toga said. Ambassador Teshome told ENA Thursday that a study enabling to transport the Obelisk by aircraft has already been finalized. Tehsome, who is also Chairman of the National Committee for the Return of the Axum Obelisk, said Ethiopia on its part has accepted the study that would enable to transport the Obelisk by aeroplane. The study has confirmed that the Obelisk can be transported safely by "Antonov 124" aircraft from Italy to Ethiopia in three rounds, he said. Inviting companies who will compete in an auction to transport the Obelisk will be the next step, according to the Minister. The Obelisk has already been dismantled safely and packed, and was kept in an airport in Rome, Ambassador Teshome said. According to the study, Axum Airport has the capacity to accommodate the stated aircraft while work on the construction of a road linking the airport with the place where the Obelisk will be re-erected, is in progress. The return of the Obelisk to country of its origin will have a paramount importance in enhancing the longstanding friendly relations and bilateral cooperation between Ethiopian and Italy, Ambassador Teshome said. Council refers bills to House ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Council of Ministers referred bills to the House of Peoples' Representatives with some amendments for approval after a thorough discussion. Office of the Cabinet Affairs Ministry told ENA yesterday that, the Council in its 117th session discussed the agreement signed and the ratification bill to secure loan from the Arab Bank for the African Economy Development for the provision of safe drinking water to the Kibre-Mengist town. The Council also passed a decision on the agreement singed with the International Development Association and ratification bill to obtain loan for the provision of safe drinking water and implementation of sanitation projects as well as for the government's capacity building sector. Accordingly, the Council checked that the loan agreements were consistent with the loan strategy of the country and decided to refer the bill to the House of Peoples' Representatives for approval. The ministers also looked into the amended bill on retired employees jointly organized by the ministries of Justice, Labour and Social Affairs and Trade and Industry as well as Social Security Authority after a direction was given by the Council. The amended bill has included new articles that could protect the benefits of employees. The Council referred the bill to the House of peoples' Representatives for approval. Gov't committed to strengthen, sustain educational reform: Ministry ADDIS ABABA - The Government of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia has issued an appropriate education policy and launched the educational and vocational training programme with the firm belief that execution capacity building is a key task in extricating the country from poverty and backwardness, the Ministry of Information said. According to the ministry's weekly statement issued yesterday, the task of capacity building requires vast and perpetual activities. As education and vocational training are instruments of building execution capacity, special focus and attention was given to the reform process, it said. In the last few years, various intensive activities were launched to address the issue of execution capacity building and mitigate problems in the educational and vocational training sector, the statement said. The statement further said that many schools were built in rural areas which benefited millions of children and efforts were exerted to improve the secondary and higher education sector. Citing the multifaceted activities underway to make educational institutions that produce competent and truly educated citizens capable of realizing all-round development, the statement said this achievement is assumed to be a result of the joint efforts of parents, the government and the public at large. The statement finally said the government is committed to strengthen and continue the joint effort in partnership with all stakeholders, particularly teachers and students to improve the quality of educational and the vocational training system. October 24, 2004 Meles reaffirms Ethiopia's continued support for Somalia Holds talks with Solana ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - Prime Minister Meles Zenawi says that Ethiopia would continue to extend support for Somalia until peace and security is ensured and permanent government is established. During talks with the newly elected President of the Somali Transitional Government Abdullahi Yusuf Ahmed, here yesterday, Meles said that his country is committed to strengthen peace and security in Somalia. Meles recalled that the people and government of Ethiopia have also been extending their support for Somalia from the beginning up to now to maintain peace and security in the Country. Out of its strong commitment to bring about peace and stability, Ethiopia has been exerting maximum efforts throughout the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) to bring a lasting peace in Somalia that has helped form the transitional government in the country. Prime Minister Meles said that Ethiopia would do everything possible to ensure law and order in Somalia in the years ahead. He also expressed his conviction that country neighbouring Somalia and the international community would continue their support for the establishment of a permanent government in Somalia. President Abdullahi called for continued Ethiopian support to bring about lasting peace in his country. He also conveyed thanks to the people and government of Ethiopia as well as member countries of IGAD for their unwavering support towards ensuring peace in his country that led to the establishment of the transitional government. Sharif Hassen Shekh, Speaker of the Transitional Federal Parliament told journalists on his part that the Parliament was successfully formed through public participation thanks to the efforts launched by Ethiopia and other IGAD member countries. Sharif also thanked Ethiopia for providing hospitality to tens of thousands of Somali refugees at a very difficult time. He also called for Ethiopia's and AU's continued support for the efforts of the Somali Transitional Government. Asked about the transitional government's plan to include Somaliland within the present government, the Speaker said that efforts have already been launched to include it and through peaceful means. Speaking to journalists on his part, Special Ethiopian Envoy to the Somali National Reconciliation Conference, Ambassador Abdulazizi Ahmed, said that the people of Somalia were happy that the transitional government has been formed. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Meles Zenawi held talks here yesterday with European Union Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana on situations prevailing in the Horn of Africa. The talks between the two officials centered on the peace process in Somalia and humanitarian crisis in Darfur, according to a spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. They also deliberated extensively on the activities being done by the African Union to ensure law and order in Somalia. Meles and Solana have also discussed ways of the support the EU will extend to the peacekeeping force to be deployed by the African Union in Darfur, Sudan, the spokesperson said. They also held wide-ranging discussion on ways of EU's support to be given to the Transitional Government of Somalia to help it ensure peace in its country. Solana told journalists after the talks that he and Prime Minister Meles had constructive discussion on the efforts launched to maintain peace and security in Africa. Plebiscite determining fate of 463 kebeles to be held today ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The plebiscite that will determine the fate of 463 kebeles bordering Somalia and Oromia states would be held today as scheduled, the National Electoral Board said. The people living in kebeles, where the registration of voters has been completed, would go to polls beginning 6:00 a.m until 6 p.m today, the Board told ENA yesterday. Election executives, observers and security personnel would be in polling stations beginning from 11:00 a.m, it said. The plebiscite will be held in secret ballots, according to the Board. Both states have territorial claims over the stated kebeles and the plebiscite is expected to resolve the problem. ================================ pol.ethiopia Oct.25,2004 ====================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com From polethiopia at yahoo.com Thu Oct 28 14:52:46 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:14 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041028125246.48493.qmail@web53310.mail.yahoo.com> October 28, 2004 Extreme poverty in Nile Basin said linked to environmental resources mismanagement by Yemane Terefe ADDIS ABABA- Vice Minister of Water Resource said that extreme poverty in Nile River Basin is closely lined to the mismanagement of the environmental resources on which the basin people depend for survival. Opening a three-day workshop "Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project" at the Ethiopian Management Institute yesterday, Ato Mesfin Tegene said that the Nile River is the longest river in the world, travelling over 6,700 kms that covers one tenth of Africa's total landmass. "It serves as home to world-class environment assesses an estimated 160 million people within the boundaries of the basin; while nearly twice that number - roughly 300 million - live within the ten countries that share or depend on Nile waters, many of them among the world's poorest,:" he added. The Vice Minister also said that to prepare an action plan geared towards concerted basin wide environmental interventions, Transboundary Environmental analysis (TEA) has been developed in May 2001 by Nile riparian states in cooperation with the UNDP and World Bank with a fund provided by the Global Environmental facility. The process was also backed by USAID. According to him, the TEA is intended as both a catalyst and valuable resources to the Nile riparian countries and their international partners as their historic political cooperation begins to be translated into effective measures aimed at sustainable economic development in the Nile Basin. He further indicated that as environmental education and awareness racing programme within the Nile Transboundary Environmental Action Project, focus on creating awareness on the river Nile environmental threats, stimulating behavioral change at three levels - the general public, secondary schools and tertiary institutions. The Nile Basin Initiative (NBI), formally launched in February 1999 by the Council of Ministers of Water Affairs of the Nile Basin countries (Nile-COM), is guided by a shared vision; "to achieve sustainable socio-economic development through the equitable utilization of, and benefit from, the common Nile Basin water resources." Some 65 senior professionals drawn from the Ministry, Oromia, Gambella, Benshangul-gumuz, Tigray and Amhara states and other pertinent governmental offices, representatives from international and local donor organizations re in attendance at the workshop. ICRC organizes discussion on alternatives to imprisonment ADDIS ABABA (WIC) - The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), in collaboration with Penal Reform International conducted a two-day discussion on the alternatives to imprisonment, which is known as community service. According to press release of ICRC sent to WIC yesterday, discussions were held on the community service that is a scheme under which judicial decisions require a light offender to perform unpaid work in the community with a view to making reparations for the offence one has committed. Is said the workshop at the Ghion Hotel was aimed at creating a forum where stakeholders discussed the advantages and disadvantages of community service in the Ethiopian context. On the occasion, Vice-Minister of Justice, Ali Suleman, said that the current Justice Reform Programme in Ethiopia is improving the legal system in general and the alternatives to prison punishment in particular by giving it primary attention. The commissioner General of Ugandan Prison, the Programme Co-ordinator for community Server in Kenya and an expert from Switzerland shared their respective countries experiences followed by panel discussions led by the head of Africa Programme from penal Reform International. Amhara Justice Bureau Head and the Deputy commissioner of the Federal Prisons presented papers on the importance of alternatives to imprisonment in the Ethiopian context and the problems to be encountered at the implementation stage. The workshop was opened by Marco Brudermann, head of ICRC delegation, and attended by representatives of the Federal Prison Commission, Ministry of Justice, Parliament, Institute of legal Studies, Ministry of Federal Affairs, Ministry of Capacity Building, federal courts as well as state justice bureaus, courts and prison administrations. Sudanese Parliament approves expansion of AU mission to Darfur ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - THE Sudanese national Assembly approved Tuesday the expansion of the African Union (AU) mission to its troubled western region of Darfur, Zihhua reported Tuesday. The lawmakers made the decision after listening to a statement delivered by Foreign Minister Mustafa Thaman Ismail on the issue, it said quoting the official Omdurman Radio report. Ismail told the parliament that this choice is the best among all proposals. "The AU mission would be assigned to a duty of monitoring the ceasefire breaches by either side, building confidence between the conflicting sides, monitoring aid flowing to the needy people in Darfur, providing good conditions to stop hostilities between all sides as well as creating chances for development, said Ismail. The AU, which is sponsoring peace talks between the Sudanese Government and the Darfur rebels, announced this week that it was set to boost the number of truce-monitoring troops in Darfur sevenfold to 3,320. Some 150 AU ceasefire monitors are in Darfur along with more than 300 troops to protect them, according to the Chinese news agency. The expanded missions will comprise over 3,000 persons who are expected to be deployed in camps and to monitor Sudanese police. =========================== pol.ethiopia Oct.28,2004 ============== __________________________________ Do you Yahoo!? Yahoo! Mail Address AutoComplete - You start. We finish. http://promotions.yahoo.com/new_mail From polethiopia at yahoo.com Fri Oct 29 14:40:13 2004 From: polethiopia at yahoo.com (Political Ethiopia) Date: Wed May 23 11:06:15 2007 Subject: [Pol.ethiopia] News Items Message-ID: <20041029124013.97413.qmail@web53307.mail.yahoo.com> October 29, 2004 House passes three bills Civil servants' amended Pension Proclamation goes into effect ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The House of Peoples' Representatives yesterday endorsed agreements reached with the Governments of Libya and Iran and a bill amending Civil Servants Pension Proclamation. The House endorsed the bills unanimously during its 5th year 3rd regular session. Accordingly, the House endorsed the bill providing for the agreement reached between Ethiopia and Libya to cooperate in cultural, youth and sports. "This agreement is believed to promote the image of Ethiopia and to help strengthen the capacity building efforts underway," the Information and Cultural Affairs Standing Committee said in a recommendation. The other bill provides for investment promotion and protection agreement reached between Ethiopia and Iran. The Trade and Industry Affairs Standing Committee in a recommendation said that the agreement would be vital to enhance the cooperation between the two countries, particularly in the field of investment and the economy. Meanwhile, the House endorsed the amended bill providing for Civil Servant's Pension and decided that it go in to effect on October 28, 2004. The amended proclamation has a new Sub-article (3) which states: "A public servant who has completed at least 20 years of service and who has reached at least 45 years of age may receive retirement pension for life where the government office he has been working for ceases to exist or he is reduced from the workforce in connection with privatization or his contract of employment is terminated as a result of inefficiency by a decision of the Council of Ministers." Sub-article (2) of Article 17 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who has been receiving invalidity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." Yet another Sub-Article (2) of Article 30 is deleted and replaced by the following sub-article (2): "If a beneficiary who is receiving incapacity pension re-enters the public service and receives salary, the pension shall be discontinued." EAL graduates 11 pilots by Shimelis Meressa ADDIS ABABA - The Multi-National Aviation Training Centre of the Ethiopian AirLines (EAL) yesterday graduated 11 Ethiopian pilots who completed the commercial pilot course with Instrument and Multiengine Ratings. After handing out diplomats and awards to the class 36A of pilot's wing, Flight Operations Executive Officer Capt. Tesfaye Ambaye called upon the graduates to be active enough in applying what they learnt and keep learning in the course of their career. Pilot Training School Manager Col. Belay Assefa on his part said that the School was to embark on a new approach of handling the commercial pilot course different from that of the traditional way that was in use for the last 40 years as of November 1,2004. "We have developed a new integrated course syllabus structured for Private Piloting Licence (PPL), Commercial Piloting Licence (CPL), Instrument and Multi-Engine Ratings (IR/ME) to be handled progressively instead of one complete CPL/IR/ME package," he said. According to the Manager, the School has also purchased two additional used C-172XPs aimed at building the capacity of the training fleet to meet the ever increasing training demand. The Manager also called upon the graduates to always commit themselves to work hard and remain abreast of the fast advancing technology. "Always make SAFETY your objective and open your mind to learn from your senior professionals," he advise the graduates. During the 24 months of their stay, the group has covered 1000:00 hours of class instruction 250:00 hours of practical flight training both on single and multiengine Trainer flight training aircrafts. The Outgoing class brings the total number of graduates to 728 out of which 437 are Ethiopians and 291 foreign graduates from over 33 African countries. EAL officials, parents of the graduates and other invited guests attended the graduation ceremony held at the Employees' Main Cafeteria. Sweden, UNDP sign pledge to support election ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The Government of Sweden and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) signed an agreement in support of the Basket Fund sponsoring the Multi-Donor Assistance for the 2005 National Election in Ethiopia, UNDP said here yesterday. According to UNDP press release, the contribution of 10 million Swedish Kroner from Sweden should be seen in the context of pledges estimated at over 4.5 million US dollars from the Donor Sub-Group on elections, chaired by Sweden. The release said Austria, Canada, Finland, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Spain and Sweden, among others, are members of the Sub-Group. The overall objective of the Multi-Donor Trust Fund Project is to contribute to the development of a free, open and accountable political system of governance and the consolidation of democracy in Ethiopia through the organization and conduct of the fourth-coming national elections in May 2005. In fulfilling these objectives, the current project is designed to assist the National Electoral Board of Ethiopia (NEB) with the conduct and overall management of the electoral process in cooperation with a range of national stakeholders. Counsellor with the Embassy of Sweden, Ingrid Lofstrom-Berg and Resident Representative of UNDP, Modibo Toure signed the agreement, according to the release. EC allocates 12.5 mln. euros to drought, disease victims in the Horn ADDIS ABABA (ENA) - The European Commission (EC) has allocated 12.5 million euros in humanitarian aid to victims of drought and disease in the horn of Africa- Eritrea (1 million), Ethiopia (6.5 million), Kenya (3.85 million) and Somalia (1.15 million). Activities will include emergency health care in Somalia and Ethiopia, and emergency drought response in Eritrea, Ethiopia and Kenya. This EU support will provide a lifeline for thousands of pastoralists suffering from the effects of water shortage, the Commission's Humanitarian Aid office said on Wednesday. Funds will be channeled through the European Commission's Humanitarian Aid Directorate General (ECHO) which comes under the responsibility of Commissioner Poul Nielson. In Eritrea, receding ground water levels following successive years of drought are leading to pockets of acute need as water supplies fail. ECHO emergency assistance will secure essential water supplies, and supplementary nutritional assistance. An estimated 150,000 people, mainly women and children located in rural areas, are expected to benefit from these activities over the next twelve months. In Ethiopia, acute needs have arisen in the southeast due to drought; while in a number of regions malaria is reaching epidemic levels, notably in areas where populations have recently been resettled, it said ECHO will provide emergency water and nutritional assistance to drought affected areas. In addition, ECHO will provide emergency medical assistance including more effective medicines to address epidemic malaria. In total, up to one million people are estimated to benefit from this assistance over the next 12 months. In Kenya, much of the north of the country, and in particular the pastoralist populations there, are suffering from drought. An estimated 600,000 people will benefit from a range of activities financed by ECHO, including emergency water, health and veterinary assistance. In Somalia, as a result of over a decade of civil war, health indicators are amongst the worst in the world, and the most vulnerable people have little or no access to health care. ECHO's assistance will focus on providing access to primary and secondary health care through support to clinic and hospital facilities including vaccination, pediatric and maternity care. This decision will help an estimated 250,000 people, especially in the capital Mogadishu. ==================================== Pol.ethiopia Oct.29,2004 ======================== __________________________________________________ Do You Yahoo!? Tired of spam? Yahoo! Mail has the best spam protection around http://mail.yahoo.com