The Ethiopian Minister of Water and Energy, Alemayehu Tajno, the involvement of Egypt and Sudan in the evaluation of economic and environmental effects of the millennium dam will improve relations between both states. “Ethiopia sent reference items to establish a committee of experts from Egypt and Sudan," Tajno said. "We will start to evaluate the effects of the dam on both countries. Ethiopia is always ready to work with both Egypt and Sudan on building relationships to achieve gains for all." He pointed out the three countries agreed to expedite starting of evaluation of technical experts. He noted Ethiopia already conducted many evaluations on the effects of the dam before the launch of work on the project. They are confident working with Egypt and Sudan aims to ensure benefits for all, pointing out the main objective of bilateral discussions was a review of the application of the agreements signed in the past by a Joint Ministerial Committee of the two countries. This was agreed upon during the visit of Prime Minister Meles Zenawi in Cairo. He explained the aim was to discuss new areas of cooperation and signing other agreements since both countries agreed to strengthen cooperation in other areas of. He pointed out, in addition to the water issue, discussion included issues of agriculture, education, health, women, youth, children, finance, double taxation and capacity building. He pointed out the Convention Cooperative Framework on the use of Nile water will not be reviewed but will be discussed during the meeting to be held in Kigali at the request of Egypt and Sudan. He also pointed out the Ethiopian government assured Egypt also it would delay the ratification of the Framework Convention until a new government is formed.
