President annuls VAT on micro financing
Obeid ,North Kordofan , Feb 4 ( Kem) –President Omar Al-Bashir Monday ordered annulment of value-added tax (VAT) collected by banks against small producers benefiting from micro-finance and revealed plans for a meeting with those concerned in these banks to apply Islamic profit-sharing formulas. The Presidential order limited the interest charged by lending banks in micro-finance undertakings as not to exceed 5% of the borrowed amount. Addressing a ceremony here today of the signing of three agreements between the government of North Kordofan state and each of the agricultural bank , the ministry of social security and Asyaf company, President Bashir instructed the Central Bank to reimburse the 12% average amount reserved for micro-finance from commercial banks failing to do that and channeling the same to specialized banks tasked with micro-financing . This , he explained , is to ensure that micro projects will receive adequate financing , adding that default and non-commitment on the part of banks had cut down the flow of micro-finance by an average 3%. The President bitterly criticized performance of banks , indicating that review proved that they were worse than any existent profit-taking system and may not be termed Islamic. “This is because,” he explained,” they add wealth to the haves and give little to the have-nots. Bankers were about to invent a revolution or coup d’état against the government because they are product of a secular banking system,” the President said.

Dr. Al-Dirdiri and EU Commissioner Chair Meeting of Arab and European Foreign Ministers
Brussels, (SUNA) – The Foreign Minister, Dr. Al-Dirdiri Mohamed Ahmed, and the European Union Commissioner for Foreign Affairs, Frederica Mujerini, Monday co-chaired the joint ministerial meeting of the European and Arab Foreign Ministers in Brussels. In his inaugural address as the head of the Arab side in the meetings, Dr. Al-Dirdiri said that the ties of history and aspirations towards the future and the factors of overlapping and geographical proximity and common challenges constitute additional impetus for further cooperation between Europe and the Arab world, pointing to the importance of strengthening joint efforts to achieve peace and stability in the region, especially in crisis areas, in addition to a just solution to the Palestinian issue, including the two-state solution on the 1967 borders. The minister called in his speech for support to the joint efforts between Europe and Arab countries to combat terrorism, irregular migration and face common challenges. He expressed his hope for convocation of the Arab-European Summit in Sharm El-Sheikh at the end of this month. EU Commissioner Mujerini said that there is a genuine European desire to deepen cooperation, especially as the European Union is keen to conduct dialogue with various regional blocs in the world The meeting was also addressed by the foreign ministers of European and Arab foreign ministers who affirmed in their interventions the importance of a European – Arab partnership as well as address to the important issues, top of which is the Palestinian question. The minister held meetings on the sidelines of the meeting with EU the Commissioner Frederica Mujerini, and discussed common issues, including aspects of bilateral cooperation He also held joint meetings with the Foreign Ministers of Hungary, Bulgaria and Poland and reviewed ways to promote bilateral cooperation in all fields between the Sudan and their respective countries. The minister also participated in the press conference held with the co-chair of the ministerial meeting Mughrini and the Secretary General of the Arab League Ahmed Abul Gheit, reiterating the need to work together for the success of the upcoming Euro-Arab Summit at the end of this month. The two sides have reached common visions that emerged during the statements of delegations and the interventions of foreign ministers from both sides, regardless of the absence of a final statement of the differences within the European and Arab groups, expressing his hope that the Arab-European cooperation will be strengthened

President Al-Bashir Inaugurates Al-Obeid Nafir Factory for Edible Oil
Al-Obeid, Feb. 4 (SUNA) - President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omar Al-Bashir, inaugurated Monday the Al-Obeid Nafir Factory for Edible Oil Production and Crop Sifting, which was established at a cost of 10.5 million dollars and consists of several lines for the production of edible oil, beans, fodder cake and the packing of hibiscus and Tabaldi crops. The factory was established at an area of 30,000 square, and it is a partnership between the Sudanese Nafir Company and an Indian company. The factory aims to produce 300 tons of grain per day. The President of the Republic witnessed Monday in Al-Obeid International Hospital a number of surgical operations being carried out for the first time in North Kordofan State following the rehabilitation of the hospital under the state's Nafir program. The surgeries included activation of peripheral nerves by stimulating the spinal cord, and knee joint replacement which were carried out by Sudanese specialists from Khartoum and Al-Obeid and by Sudanese doctors working in European countries. During his visit to the North Kordofan State, President Al-Bashir visited the Burbor project and received the eight new water canals and the conveyer line from Burbor to Benno Purification Station, announcing the launch of the expansion of Al Rahad Canal and linking it to the southern water sources of Al-Obeid City via a conveyor line

President Al-Bashir Returns Home from Cairo
Khartoum, (SUNA) – President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer A-Bashir, Sunday evening returned home after a one-day visit to Cairo, Egypt, during which he held talks with President Abdul-Fattah Al-Sisi. In a press statement, the Foreign Minister, Dr. Al-Dirdiri Mohamed Ahmed, has described the visit as provided opportunity to follow up the implementation of joint projects, indicating that the two presidents have deliberated about different regional issues of mutual concern and the developments at the Arab and African arenas. He said that the President of the Republic has informed the Egyptian President on Sudan initiative for realizing peace in the Central African Republic and the progress achieved in this regard in the past two days. He indicated that the two presidents have deliberated about a common position on the preparation for the Arab-European summit and ways to benefit from this great occasion in the framework of reactivating cooperation between Arabs and Europe and focusing on projects of interest to the Nile Valley. He stressed that it was agreed on the importance of activating cooperation between Sudan, Egypt and Ethiopia within the framework of the tripartite committee between the three countries, with regard to the projects of the Nile Valley and the Renaissance Dam particularly. Dr. Al-Dirdiri said that the two presidents also discussed the current crisis in Sudan and the assistance that Egypt can extend to Sudan in this connection. He added that the visit of the President of came within the framework of continuous consultation between the leaderships of the two countries and as part of the strategic partnership between Sudan and Egypt.

Sudan wraps trade deals with Ethiopia and Tunisia
Sudanese businessmen met with their counterparts in Ethiopia and Tunisia to conclude commercial deals in the business center organized by the Federation of Chambers of Commerce at Khartoum International Fair. Head of the Higher Committee for Organizing the Center Hashim Al-Fadhel said in a press statement that Sudanese businessmen held bilateral meetings with 19 Tunisian companies and (8) Ethiopian companies in the field of trade exchange and supply of goods and services. Al-Fadhel pointed out that Tunisia has offered to work in providing medicines and agricultural equipment, as well as office supplies and industrial materials, while Ethiopia has offers in the field of cement, iron, leather and spices, stressing that the chamber is moving ahead with its most important goals. The centre, he added, is focused on statistics, information and economic activities in Sudan offered to participant foreign countries, Sudanese companies and institutions, visitors beside answering inquiries on economy, trade, investment activities, economic legislation and laws, and companies active in various fields in Sudan. The center organizes a number of seminars on economic issues, as well as discussing the strategies that the Federation of Chambers of Commerce seeks to achieve through its role in economic development of the country Al-Fadhel said .

Al-Zubair Oil Group of Oman expresses desire to invest in Sudan
Khartoum, (SUNA) - Al-Zubair Petroleum Group of Oman has expressed desire to invest in the oil and gas sector in Sudan. The Minister of Oil, Gas and Minerals Engineer Azhari Abdul-Qadir welcomed the delegation of the group headed by the Official of the Oil Sector in the group Eng. Sultan Al-Ghaithi, pointing out that the doors of Sudan are open to all international companies, particularly that the Omani companies have known capabilities in the oil industry, expressing his readiness to offer all assistance to Al-Zubair Group to engage into the investment in the oil and gas sectors in Sudan besides the data and studies prepared on the opportunities available for investment. Eng. Sultan Al Ghaithi said that the Group operates in the oil and gas industry in Oman and that it runs three oil concessions with high and advanced capabilities, pointing to its investments in Tanzania, expressing his group serious desire to enter into partnerships with Sudapet National Company in the concessions it manages as well as the opportunities being promoted by the Ministry of Oil, Gas and Minerals.

Abdul-Majid Idris Sworn-in as Chief Justice
Khartoum The newly-appointed Chief Justice, Abdul-Magid Idris, was sown-in yesterday before the President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al Bashir. Present at the oath-taking ceremony were the First Vice-President of the Republic, Lt. Gen. Bakri Hassan Saleh and the Minister of the Presidency, Fadul Abdallah Fadul.

Kibir Informed on Situation in Blue Nile State
Khartoum, (SUNA) – Vice – President of the Republic, Dr. Osman Mohamed Yousif Kibir, received at the Republican Palace Monday a group of the Blue Nile State’s deputies at the National Legislature and reviewed the general situation in the state. At the meeting, the Vice – President affirmed the Presidency support to implementation of projects in the Blue Nile State. Chairperson of the deputies’ group, Ahmed Karameno, said in a press statement that they briefed the Vice – President on realization of peace between the state’s components and the implementation of development projects in the state. He indicated that a number of roads and electricity projects have been included in the budget for the year 2019. Karameno has affirmed the firm stand of the people of the Blue Nile State in support of the national accord government toward completing the development projects and boosting the stability in the state

Ministry of Finance calls for optimal use of resources in 2019 budget
Khartoum, (SUNA) - The State Minister at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning Muslim Ahmed Al-Amir has affirmed prioritization and optimal use of resources during the implementation of the budget for the year 2019. He stressed the need for efficient spending, which means getting the best results at the lowest possible cost, pointing out to the importance of preparing the periodic reports in the budget of programs and performance at the level of the units, the Ministry of Finance, the Council of Ministers and the National Assembly. He called for activation of the monitoring and evaluation unit at the Ministry of Finance to screen the programs and performance budget in the center and the states. "It must be effective and accurate in hitting the target." This came during his meeting Sunday with the Directors of the departments and units of the Ministry of Finance on the enforcement of the budget of the program and the overall performance in the new year at the Ministry of Finance.

Council of Ministers Approves General Budget for Year 2019
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The Council of Ministers, chaired by the Prime Minister, Muttaz Musa, Tuesday approved the government general budget project for the year 2019 which aims for realizing the four strategic goals of economic reform, enhancing the living conditions and reducing the rate of poverty, combating corruption and the rule of law and reforming the civil service. The general budget stated that the GDP rate is 5.1%, and that the contribution of the agricultural sector to the GDP is 27.8%, while the contribution of the industrial sector to the GDP is 28%. The general budget expected positive growth by increase of the exports sector by 30% as well as increase in the services rates at standards that comply with the increase of the production and social sector via contribution of 44.2%. The estimate set for the public revenues in the general budget is 162.8 billion pounds, by an increase of 39% than that in the past year. In the deficit in the general budget is expected to drop by 3.3% of the GDP due to preservation of that support to the support levels and the drop in the public expenditure. The Council of Ministers has affirmed the importance of maintaining precise control and enhance.The Cabinet also stressed importance continuing the social support program.

HCENR Launches Data Cloud Project for Supporting Small Farmers
Khartoum-The Higher Council for Environment and Natural Resources (HCENR) has launched the data cloud project in the context of the program of financing adaptation to the effects of climate change, funded by the Global Environment Facility at the cost of 6 million dollars. The project is implemented in six states of Sudan, including Kassala, White Nile, South Darfur, North Kordofan and River Nile. Secretary General of the Higher Council for Environment and Natural Resources Dr. Nur-Eddin Ahmed Abdallah affirmed that the project aims at building capacities of small farmers and herdsmen at the areas vulnerable to climate change effects besides providing financial services to them to cope with the climate change. He stressed the importance of provision of information to the producers, saying that the data cloud project aims at providing the necessary information to all stakeholders in the government, private sector and small farmers and herdsmen via modern means of communication. He expected that the project would contribute to poverty reduction among the targeted groups, improve the living conditions, and boost economic growth, food security and sustainable management of the natural resources.

President Al-Bashir Arrives in Minsk
President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al-Bashir, Sunday noon arrived in Minsk, the capital of Belarus, accompanied by a high-level delegation at the invitation of Belarus President, Alexander Lukashenko, to discuss ways of strengthening the relations and cooperation between the two countries in the political and economic fields. The Sudanese and Belarusian sides will discuss during the visit means of bolstering the economic cooperation between the two countries, especially in the fields of agricultural machineries’ manufacturing and animal resources. The two sides would sign by the end of the visit a number of agreements and memos of understanding and issue the final communique for reactivating the bilateral cooperation in all domains. During the visit, the President of the Republic will inaugurate Sudan Embassy to Belarus in Minsk. The President’ visit come in the context of the joint keenness to cement the relations between the two countries. He was accompanied during his visit to Belarus by a number of ministers and businessmen

Presidency Eulogizes Wali (governor) of Gedarif and his Companions
Khartoum, Decic has mourned passing of the Wali (governor) of Gedarif State, Engineer Mirghani Salih Sid-Ahmed, and his companions the Minister of Agriculture in the state, Omer Mohamed Ibrahim Danfy, the Director of the Borders administration in the State,, Salah Omer Ibrahim Al-Khabir, the Director of the Wali’s office, Majdi Hassan Al-Nur, the Commander of the Fifth Brigade in the Second Division, Brig. Yousif Al-Tayeb, Deputy Director of Police in the state, Brig. Al-Nur Ahmed Osman, and the Intelligence Officer in the Second Division, Major Mohi-Eddin Al-Rayah, who martyred Sunday morning in a helicopter plane crash while they were leaving to Galabat town in an official mission

Sudan and India holds 8th session of consultations between the two Foreign Ministries
Sudan and India held 8th session of consultations between the Foreign Ministries of the two countries, on Monday, in New Delhi. The Indian Embassy in Khartoum said that the Indian side was led by the Joint Secretary (West Asia and North Africa B Bala Bhaskar, MEA, while the Sudanese side was led by the Director General of Arab and Asian Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Sudan Ambassador Mahmoud Fadl Abdul Rasoul Mohammed. The consultations between the two sides have included the political relations, Investment, defense and security issues, human resources development, agriculture, debts and culture. India affirmed its commitment to cooperate with Sudan in these fields. India reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Sudan in these areas. The two sides also exchanged views on issues of mutual concern at regional and multilateral levels.

Central Bank earmarks 10 million Euros for import of life-saving medicines
Health Minister Mohamed Abouzid Mostafa announced Sunday that the Central Bank of Sudan has allocated 10 million euros for medical supplies to provide life-saving medicines, pointing out that the bank promised to provide more hard currency in the next few days. Abouzid pointed to the commitment of the prime minister and the central bank governor to provide money for supplies, indicating that this commitment confirms the state’s continued support for medicines. The official said that the amount provided by the Bank of Sudan would help provide many types of medicines and urgent serums directly from manufacturers, adding that the next phase will witness availability of required medicines to end shortage of the past period. Minister of Health reassured citizens of working through various state institutions and mechanisms to provide the required and satisfactory treatment throughout the country to citizens.

Assistant President meets the International Business Council for Latin America
Assistant President Faysal Hassan Ibrahim in his visit to Mexico met with Director of International Cooperation of the International Business Council for Latin America and the Caribbean, Ricardo Thales in the presence of Council member Krisha Martic and Sudanese Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Osama Faisal Ricardo expressed Council’s desire to work in Sudan and through the entry into the African market, (COINE) is working to strengthen national and international ties, implementation of partnerships between companies and investors, conducting many studies, research and business feasibility analysis. The council enjoys a global presence and strategic partners and has 176 national and international affiliated companies in 13 countries, adding that the Council specializes in the internationalization of companies and work on joint investments between Latin America and the world. Sudanese Assistant explained the potential of Sudan in many fields particularly in the fields of agriculture, animal production and energy. He pointed out that Sudan is a gateway to Africa and the Arab world, which contributes to take advantage of the available resources in Sudan and Africa.

Chinese Communist Party affirms its support to Sudan
The National Congress and the Communist Party of China (CPC), at the end of the fifth session of the political dialogue in Beijing, reiterated their commitment to work with Sudan to further enhance cooperation in issues of mutual concern. The Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Song Tao said Beijing cannot abandon Khartoum and that next year marks the 60th anniversary of the relationship. He announced his party will invite Sudanese NCP to Beijing Economic Forum, and they will consult on issues of interest to the two peoples including the belt and road issue.During the session, several topics were discussed, including combating terrorism, promoting peace, allevating poverty, strengthening food security and expanding the opportunities of grassroot organizations and voluntary work projects. Assistant President Faisal Hassan Ibrahim and his delegation will travel to Chinese province of Hengstu to attend the opening ceremony of the second session of the dialogue between the CPC and parties in Arab countries. It is scheduled that Ibrahim will deliver address of the National Congress Party and return to Beijing for talks with the Chinese Foreign and Agriculture Ministers prior to the meeting with the Sudanese community at the Sudan Embassy in Beijing.

(4) Humanitarian convoys to be deliver to South Sudan, Sudanese government announces
Sudan’s government sent yesterday“4” convoys loaded with humanitarian materials to South Sudan, the government of White Nile state revealed, announcing increasing of sending the humanitarian trucks in coming period. Meanwhile, the humanitarian convoys has been delivered through “Gouda” land crossing to “Renk” river concluded by states of “Bahr Al Ghazal and Upper Nile”, the Official of Humanitarial Organization for Humanitarian Aid Commission of White Nile state, Mustafa Al Kamil said in press statement to “SMC”, indicating that the convoys includes “160”tons of corn, “400” cartons of food oils in addition to legumes, flour and rice. A great number of humaniterial organizations joined this humaniterial act and worked to bring quantities of food for the World Food Program “WFP” warehouses in Renk and Kosti states, Al Kamil pointed out.

Guinean President: Sudan plays a major role in maintaining security in region
The President of Equatorial Guinea Theodore Obiang said that his visit to Sudan aims at developing economic and political relations, stressing his country’s desire to develop the prospects for joint cooperation between Sudan and Equatorial Guinea, pointing to the great similarity between two peoples. During the opening session of the joint talks Obiang said that Guinea has common interests with Sudan and looks forward to further cooperation between the two countries in the fields of agriculture, fishing, telecommunications and capacity building, as well as enhancing cooperation in the security and military. He pointed out the success of the national dialogue, which positively reflected peace in Darfur. He added that the establishment of joint committees in the field of security and exchange of information enables two countries to address any security threats.

Sudan produces 41.6 tons of gold in six months
Khartoum , (Kem)—Sudan’s production from gold reached about 41.6 tons during the six-month period from April until September this year, said the ministry of oil , gas and minerals , adding state revenues from mines hit 1,718.1 million Sudanese pounds. In an account statement before parliament Tuesday, Minister of State for oil, gas and mines, General (Police) Awad Al-Nil Dahiyeh explained that the ministry concluded 16 agreements for gold prospection and other minerals, granted 151 licenses for searching for minerals , 25 mining contracts and 11 contracts for treatment of gold powder. About his ministry’s annual activities and plans for 2019, the official spoke of draft miscellaneous amendments in the mining act, specifically in respect of fighting of gold smuggling besides developing and upgrading conventional mining markets through establishment of pilot gold markets. Plans for the advent year ,Dahiyeh revealed a targeted production of 123.5 tons of gold in addition to promotion of technical capabilities to match with world advances. In the field of oil exploration and production, the State Minister said Sudan produced 14 million barrels of oil ,or an average production of 77,000 barrels of crude per day during the period April-September of this year. Besides 3 exploration wells were dug in addition to 5 developmental wells. An evaluation study agreement was signed with Malaysia’s Petronas Oil Company covering blocks 13-15 in the Red Sea, a similar one with a Turkish company in blocks 17-25 in addition of a memo of understanding with China’s CNPC. On outlines of 2019 plans , he said they will make available 7.4 metric tons of petroleum products for local consumption and import 3.7 metric tons of oil products at an estimared cost of 2.4 billion US dollars. “We will also build a strategic reserve stock to suffice the country from oil derivatives within limits of 1.7 million metric tons costing an average of 1.1 billion dollars in addition to provision of 144,000 metric tons of benzene for export to Ethiopia fetching 105 million dollars under an agreement concluded,” Dahiyeh concluded.

Fourth Oilseeds Conference to be held next Sunday
Khartoum, – Prime Minister Mutaz Musa is due to honor next Sunday the opening sitting the Fourth Oilseeds Conference, which is to be organized by the National Chamber of Exporters of the Federation of the Chambers of Commerce at the Corinthia Hotel. The Chairman of the Administrative Committee of the Conference Ayman Mohamed Al-Sheikh Jamil said, in a statement to SUNA, that the conference comes as an extension to the private sector's vision to improve Sudanese exports according to the state's orientation, revealing participation of more than 120 companies from different countries, pointing to the participation of new countries in the conference including Singapore, Japan and a number of Gulf states. Jamil explained that the conference would review eight working papers specialized in oil grains as well as a paper on the promising exports of legumes, hibiscus and melon seeds, pointing to the global openness to bean exports.

Washington eager to develop relations with Sudan, US academic says
Sudan can serve as a link circle and bridge between Africa and Middle East, Deputy Executive Director of American Institute of the International Education, Member of the American universities delegation which participated recently in forum of Sudanese-America universities, Maximalian Angor Holzer said yesterday, pointing out that US looks for Sudan importantly and eager to develop relations with. Sudan has many educational advantages and scientists, who can make a political transition and overcome all diplomatic challenges, Maximalian expressed in statement to “SMC”, referring to improvement of the diplomatic relations between the two countries and its prosperity in recent times.

Council of Ministers Hears Report on Visit of Al-Sisi
Khartoum, (SUNA) - The Council of Ministers, chaired by the Prime Minister, Muttaz Musa, heard in its sitting Sunday a report of the Foreign Minister, Dr. Al-Dirdiri Mohamed Ahmed, on the visit of the President of Egypt, Abdul-Fatah Al-Sisi, to Sudan on October 25 and the singing of 12 agreements between the two countries, top of them were the electrify network connection, the railways linking between the two countries, the project of industrial zone in Sudan and the strategic meat project in the Blue Nile State. The Foreign Minister announced that the President of the Republic will visit Egypt on November 6 to participate in the celebration of the Arab Youth Forum in Sharm Al-Sheikh city

Opening of first electronic trade exchange in Sudan
Secretary General of the National Investment Authority Oushek Mohammed Ahmed Taher opened the first electronic trade exchange in Sudan-Khartoum, which allows a large number of citizens to enter the world market through the stock exchanges. The Chairman of Board of Directors of Qarbos International Group, Ahmed Qarbos, said that the exchange will work to activate the electronic trading market which will create large job opportunities for Sudanese youth and provide a chance for everyone to learn about the global trade movement. The stock exchange is open to citizens to support production and productivity, he said. For his part, Secretary-General of the National Investment Authority Ochik Mohammed Ahmed Taher called on investors to enter the global market through electronic trading. He said that the direction of state next phase is to deal in the movement of trade and financial transactions through electronic trading in Sudan. “Sudan is pursuing a clear strategic plan to encourage foreign and direct investment in Sudan,” he said.

Cabinet Reviews Future of Textile Industry.
Khartoum, (SUNA) – Presided over by its Prime Minister Mutaz Musa, the Council of Ministers discussed Sunday a report on the spinning and weaving industry in Sudan and the future vision presented by the Minister of Industry and Trade Dr. Musa Karama. Dr. Karama explained the relative advantages of this sector, which it absorbs large numbers of the labor force, consumes the agricultural inputs available in the country and has capability to realize self-sufficiency due to the availability of good production, adding that the sector has a domestic, regional and global renewable market. The official spokesperson of the Council of Ministers Dr. Omer Mohamed Salih said, in a press statement, that the report contained details of the design and operational capacities in the cotton ginning, spinning, weaving and ready-made clothes, revealing that the report has come out with a number of recommendations including cotton production, financing of production and processing, tax review and energy problem solution as well as the encouragement of the establishment of accessories factories. The Cabinet listened to a practical report on the possibilities of Sur International Ready-Made Garments Company, which founded through Sudanese-Turkish-Qatari partnership and produces according to the best international specifications of yarns and ready-made textiles. The Council of Ministers decided to re-produce the national strategy for spinning and weaving and turn it into a matrix that specifies the requirements and measures through it will be implemented and the implementation timetables within one month from today. The leather products should be included in the matrix, in addition to the setting of specific timetable for reaching the export stage. The Cabinet should receive a quarter report on the Strategy implementation progress.

Sudanese-American Collaboration Forum to promote bilateral relations
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The Director of Foreign Affairs in US Embassy in Khartoum, Keith Hughes, affirmed that the Sudan - America Forum, which was held in Khartoum, will contribute to improving the relations between Sudan and the United States, pointing to the increasing of the level of scientific exchange. Hughes described the recent regular visits between the two countries have contributed to deepening the relations between the two countries, indicating that the signing Partnership Minutes in education and research sectors will take place at end of this visit. The Deputy Chairman of the Coordination Committee, Prof. Azhari Omer Abdul-Bagi, said that the conference has discussed several draft documents, the most important of which was an introduction about the higher education in Sudan and USA, besides other draft papers about the building of scientific research partnerships. He pointed that the conference sessions reviewed the successful experiments of universities in both sides, stating that four sessions, parallel to the conference had discussed the partnership concept and the ways to support it, in addition to framing agricultural and food security fields, health and medical cooperation. Prof. Abdul-Bagi indicated that there would be a special session to discuss water harvesting, energy, processing industry, information and computer. He said that the cooperation will also include social, humanitarian and archeological studies, adding that the tomorrow session will be assigned for the communication with youths. He announced that the American delegation will visit Shendi University and Bajrawia.

Meetings of IGAD Countries Chiefs of Staff Concluded in Khartoum
Khartoum, (SUNA) – Meetings of the IGAD Chiefs of Staff were Monday concluded at the Friendship Hall by issuance of the final communique. The final communique stated that the meeting was held in accordance with outcome of the extraordinary IGAD Summit which was held in Addis Ababa on September 12. The communique indicated that the meeting was aimed to deliberation on outcome of the IGAD extraordinary summit with regard to expanding delegation of the Regional Protection Force to include Sudan, Uganda, Somalia and Djibouti in addition to the former force. The communique indicated that the meeting of the IGAD chiefs of staff was also aimed to reconsidering status of the Regional Protection Force and defining its duties on the light of the situation in South Sudan State. The Minister of Defence, Lt. Gen. Awad Mohamed Ahmed bin Auf, has addressed the meeting urging all the parties in South Sudan State to work for achieving sustainable security and stability. He also called on the IGAD member states to utilize all the mechanisms for implementing outcome of the IGAD Chiefs of Staff. The meeting has heard a comprehensive report given by the Chief of Staff of South Sudan State on the security situation in his country. The sittings of the meeting have witnessed effective participation of the IGAD chiefs of staff on the means to enhance the security situation in South Sudan State. The most important outcome of the meeting included formation of a joint team work, headed by Sudan and including representatives of the member states in the Regional Protection Force, to assess putting the Regional Protection Force on the ground and to present its report in the coming meeting of the IGAD chiefs of staff, scheduled in Addis Ababa on November 19, 2018

Russia expresses to invest in dairy and meat sector in Sudan
Russia expressed its desire to invest in the country’s livestock sector, the Russian delegation to the country, headed by the Director of Merogold Company for Agricultural and Animal Production Familly Veliko expressed his country desire to invest in livestock, especially in the production of milk, meat and fish. The delegation discussed with the Minister of State for livestock the engineer Sadiq Fadlallah Sabah Al Kier how to develop the livestock investment in its various fields, taking advantage of the modern technologies owned by Russia and the country’s richness of large animal wealth has not been independent, especially in the field of fish. Eng. Sadiq Fadlallah stressed the importance of providing all support and facilitating all difficulties with related parties so that these projects see the light soon, noting the advanced and developed relations between the two countries.

Al-Bashir: Sudanese Diplomacy Performance is Satisfactory
Khartoum, (SUNA)-President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al-Bashir expressed full satisfaction over performance of Sudanese diplomacy , saying achievement of peace in South Sudan State was the greatest accomplishment made by Foreign Ministry. He disclosed that honoring some diplomats by Presidency of the Republic came as recognition and appreciation to role being played the Sudanese diplomacy in defending the Sudan at all regional and international forums. President Al-Bashir , who was addressing the Foreign Ministry workers Wednesday, said that Foreign Minister , Dr Al-Dirdiri Mohamed Ahmed has managed negotiation file on peace in South Sudan State with skillfulness that contributed to reaching peace agreement in South Sudan , disclosing that stability in South Sudan means stability for Sudan and countries of the region. He added that achievement of peace in South Sudan was a step for achieving comprehensive peace in Sudan and that Ambassador Jamal El-Sheikh was selected Special Envoy for peace in South Sudan State to observe implementation of the agreement on the ground. The President said” I have a moral duty towards people of South Sudan “, commending role being carried out by the Sudanese diplomacy in enhancing the Sudan’s image. He said the decision on reduction of diplomatic representation which issued recently aimed to decrease the government expenditures and that the decision did not confine to Foreign Ministry but included all organs of the state .

Sudan, Indonesia agree to develop trade relations
Bali, (SUNA) – The State Minister at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, head of Sudan delegation of Sudan participating in the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank (WB) on the island of Bali, Indonesia, Dr. Mussalam Ahmed Al-Ameer has revealed an agreement with the Deputy Minister of Finance of Indonesia to develop relations between the two countries. Dr. Al-Ameer added that the agreement included the exchange of experience, capacity building of the Ministry of Finance’s staff in the field of public finance management, as well as sending a team from Sudan to learn about Indonesia's experience in the development of public finance management and the development and management of revenues and customs, referring to the agreement on promotion of trade exchange between the two countries, particularly in the exports of Sudanese meat and oilseeds. This came during a meeting of the Sudan delegation with the Indonesian Deputy Minister of Finance, on the sidelines of the IMF and WB annual meetings, in which an agreement was reached on the arrangement of an Indonesian delegation visit to Sudan, comprising representatives of the government and the private sector to work with the Sudanese government and private sector on the development of trade relations and practical steps for increasing trade exchange between the two countries.

South African Vice – President Concludes Visit to Sudan
Khartoum, (SUNA) – Vice – President of South Africa, David Mabuza, Tuesday concluded his two-day visit to Sudan after meeting with a number of senior officials in Khartoum. He was seen off at Khartoum Airport by the First Vice – President of the Republic, Lt. Gen. Bakri Hassan Salih. The talks between the South African Vice – President and the Sudanese officials included ways of boosting the investment and the economic cooperation between the two countries as well as ways to revamp the peace process in South Sudan State under auspices of IGAD.

Sudanese-American Universities Forum to be launches in Khartoum
The first Sudanese-American Universities Forum will be launches at headquarters of Higher Education and Scientific Research Ministry in Khartoum on October, 27. In related, “60” professors from various American universities will take part in the forum. Moreover, among most prominent American universities whose representatives will take part in the forum, universities of “John Hopkins, Indiana Board, Indiana Police, Stanford and California Berkeley”. Worth mentioning, the forum is the first joint action between Sudanese and American universities which holding in Khartoum lasts for 3 days was preceded by preliminary activities made by the American International Institute for Training. Meanwhile, all steps for launching forum of Sudanese-American Universities has completed, Minister of Higher Education, Al Sadig Al Hadi Al Mahadi affirmed, pointing out that the forum aims to reverse the American experience in higher education to Sudan as well as discussing the cooperation between the two countries.

Muttaz Appreciates Cooperation between Sudan and WHO
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The Prime Minister, Muttaz Musa, has appreciated the level of cooperation between Sudan and World Health Organization (WHO) in health field. This came at his meeting Monday at his office in Council of Ministers with the General Director of World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom, in presence of the Health Minister, Dr. Mohamed Abu-Zaid Mustafa. Dr. Mustafa stated that the meeting tackled outcome of the joint discussion between the Ministry of Health and WHO, pointing out that the meeting ALSO discussed importance of enabling the Sudanese cadres to benefit from WHO medical and health capabilities at the regional level, especially in the training of health cadres. Meanwhile, Adhanom, said his visit to Sudan comes in framework of his participation in the regional meeting of the WHO, pointing out that the meeting discussed the cooperation between the organization and Sudan. He affirmed the commitment of the organization to strengthen its cooperation with the medical institutions in Sudan.

South African Vice – President Arrives in Khartoum
Khartoum, (SUNA) – Vice – President of the Republic of South Africa, David Mabuza, Monday arrived in Khartoum on a two-day visit during which he will hold talks with Sudanese officials on the bilateral relations. He was received upon arrival at Khartoum Airport by the First Vice – President of the Republic, Lt. Gen. Bakri Hassan Salih, and a number of senior officials. In a press statement, the State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Usama Faisal, said that David Mabuza is visiting Sudan as the special envoy of the President of South Africa, to convey a message from the South African President to President Al-Bashir dealing with ways to consolidate the bilateral relations. He said that the South African Vice – President will hold talks with a number of senior officials, including the First Vice – President and the Prime Minister, Mttaz Musa, on the bilateral relations and issues of mutual concern. He indicated that President Al-Bashir will meet the South African Vice – President on Tuesday. Faisal pointed out that the South African Vice – President will discuss also the issue of peace in South Sudan and Sudan efforts in this connection.

(450) million dollars expected revenues of Arabic gum
The Arabic gum board expected to achieve revenues of 450 million dollars by direct export of 150 thousand tons and 50 thousand tons through infusion for the current season. Secretary General of the Council, Dr. Abdul Majid Abdul Qader announced double exports of gum from (70) thousand to (150) thousand tons. Abdul Majid revealed that they have borrowed (1000) Popular Defense Forces from Khartoum and Qadarif states to meet the shortage of labor. “The management of the tree belts project has adopted the smart partnerships system to meet the challenges employment lack, funding and facilitate the task of harvesting, exportation and deportation”. He said during lunching the production season. He added that the project aims at cultivating (10%) of rain areas in the state of Gedaref, which is (800) thousand of the (8) Millions of acres are the land areas planned in state. General Manager of the Commercial Refining Company, Abdulmahmood Al-Muta’afi, announced of of one million dollars as finance, expecting 5 million dollars revenues for the export of gum. Sydney Company is the first in the country where it has grown about (35) gum trees are currently producing.

British company expresses desire to promote Sudanese oil projects in UK
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The British Mercantile General International Company has expressed its desire to promote the Sudanese oil projects in the UK in the fields of exploration, oilfield services, financing and the transfer of British technology in the oil and gas industry to Sudan, expressing its desire to invest in minerals and obtain a gold mining site in Sudan. This came during the meeting of the Minister of Oil, Gas and Minerals Engineer Azhari Abdel-Gadir at his office Tuesday with the delegation of the company led by Lord Mohammed Sheikh, a member of the House of Lords in the United Kingdom and chairman of the company in the presence of a number of his British business partners and the company manager in Africa. The head of the delegation, Lord Mohammed Sheikh, expressed the desire of the British Mercantile General International Company in cooperation with the Ministry of Oil, Gas and Minerals to attract British companies to invest in Sudan, especially that Britain after the exit from the European Union needs new markets for these fields, expressing his interest in supporting the improvement of the British-Sudanese relations exploiting his position as a politician, businessman and British investor. For his part, the Minister of Oil, Gas and Minerals welcomed the desire of the company to cooperate with his ministry, expressing his readiness to collaborate with the company and provide it with the opportunities available for investment in Sudan, urging the technicians from both sides to discuss aspects of cooperation in the fields of oil and minerals. He stressed that the oil, gas and minerals sectors were constantly receiving a number of new investors wishing to enter this vital sector, pointing out to the desire of the companies working in the sector to continue the partnership and expanding their business in Sudan. It is worth mention that the British Mercantile General International Company is a London-based operating in the fields of trade, agricultural investment, mining and banking services and it is chaired by the Lord Mohammed Sheikh, a member of the British House of Lords and a senior British businessperson.

Council of Ministers: Affirms Partnership Between Government and Private sector
Khartoum, (SUNA)- The Cabinet Affairs Minister, Ahmed Saad Omer, has affirmed the importance of Shura and partnership between the Government and private sector to manage the economy and to formulate developmental plans. That came in his address Monday at the consultative meeting between private sector and the Prime Minister, Muttaz Musa, in presence of a number of banks' representatives, businessmen, the Banks Union and Governor of Central bank of Sudan, at premises of the Sudanese Businessmen and Employers Federation. He asserted the importance of dialogue and giving concern to citizens' livilihood, referring to his meeting with the Parliament and response of the government to the proposal of the deputies to join in putting the budget. Omer affirmed that the national government is working to realize economic stability by supporting of private sector.

Foreign Ministry: Expected Visit of President Al-Bashir to Egypt
Khartoum, (SUNA)- The State Minister for Foreign Affairs, Usama Faisal, pointed out that the relations between Sudan and Egypt are at their best, announcing that the President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al-Bashir, would visit Egypt shortly. At a discussion session organized by the Future Studies Center Wednesday, the minister has referred to expected exchange of visits by the Sudanese and Egyptian officials and meetings of joint committees. He affirmed keenness of the Foreign Ministry to enhance Sudan relations with all countries, reiterating Sudan keenness to strengthen its relations with the African countries

Ministry Of Minerals Welcomes Increase of Petronas Oil Investments
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The Minister of Oil, Gas and Minerals, Eng. Azhari Abdul-Gadir Abdalla, has discussed the desire of the Malaysian Petronas Company to increase its oil investment in Sudan, appreciating the continuing cooperation between ministry and Company. This came on Wednesday when he met at his office the Malaysian Ambassador to Khartoum, Mohamad Razdan Jami. The meting discussed the work of the company in Sudan and the current preparation to receive the President of the Malaysian Petronas Company who will visit Sudan by the end of current September for two days. Abdalla described the visit as important, affirming his readiness to provide support for success the visit, appreciating Sudanese - Malaysian cooperation in the oil sector. Meanwhile Jamil said that his company aspires for more cooperation with Sudan, especially in the etroleum and Gas fields, referring to the firm cooperation in the oil sector via Petronas company in number of squares and looking for more investment, hoping that the flow of banking transfers between Sudan and Malaysia will increase the cooperation between Ministry of Oil, Gas and Minerals and Petronas Company.

International Seminar on Water Harvesting Strategies and Technologies to be held in Khartoum
Khartoum, (SUNA) - The Regional Center for Capacity Development and Research, in cooperation with UNESCO, is due to host the World Seminar on Water Harvesting Technologies (Towards Effective Adaptation Strategies) during September 26-28 at the Coral Hotel in Khartoum. The Director of the Regional Center for Capacity Development and Research in Water Harvesting at the Ministry of Water Resources, Irrigation and Electricity Engineer Hatim Al-Badri said that the seminar aimed to discuss strategies of water harvesting technologies in the presence of internal, regional and international experts in water harvesting representing water research institutes, government ministries and strategic companies. He revealed that the experience of Sudan in the areas of water harvesting would be reviewed during the seminar, adding that the experiences of the modern world in the field of water harvesting are also to be discussed in the meeting. He added that Sudan enjoyed wide human and technical capabilities in Water harvesting field. The Minister of Water Resources, Irrigation and Electricity, Engineer Khadhir Gassimal-Seed is to honor the seminar, with the participation of domestic, regional and international experts in the field of water harvesting, representing water research institutes, government ministries and strategic companies. The seminar aims to share experiences on water harvesting technologies worldwide.

President Al-Bashir: Sudan is Safe and Peaceful Country
Khartoum, (SUNA)- President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al-Bashir, affirmed that Sudan is a safe and peaceful country which is capable of providing peace and security for its citizens. During his meeting Wednesday with the visiting delegation of the British House of Lords, President Al-Bashir stressed that Sudan has become an oasis of peace and safe shelter for big numbers of refugees who have fled their country. He said that peace now prevails in Darfur states after the end of war, adding that the incidents that occur from time to time is something normal in all countries, especially in the countries emerging from conflicts. President Al-Bashir pointed out that Sudan call for exit of UNAMID Forces came in accordance with a report of a tripartite committee which has got satisfied with the security situation in Darfur and decided gradual exit of UNAMID forces. He asserted that Darfur is currently not facing a security problem, but relates to the challenge of resettlement of displaced people and refugees and providing them with services, dismantling camps and return of its residents to the home villages or settling them in towns. He referred to the government efforts for patching up the rift in the social fabric and carrying out tribal reconciliations. He affirmed that Sudan is combating terrorism and supports the international efforts for eradicating terrorism, indicating that the FBI and CIA reports affirmed that Sudan has nothing to do with terroirs, He also pointed to the unique religious tolerance in Sudan, asserting that the Christians in Sudan are enjoying all rights and religious freedoms.

Chinese ambassador stresses cooperation in infrastructure fields
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The Chinese Ambassador to Sudan Li Lianhe has affirmed his country's readiness to enhance cooperation in the field of infrastructure projects that would establish to the achievement of economic development in Sudan. The Chinese ambassador added that the opportunity was ripe for Sudan to benefit from the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, which gave priority to the implementation of the eight campaigns over the next three years and China's launch of a planning process for China-Africa cooperation for infrastructure and push Chinese companies to participate in the implementation of their projects and to provide more facilities and take advantage of the resources of banks and funds to implement them in addition to benefiting from the construction of the Belt Road. During a speech to a seminar on the outcomes of the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and Sudanese relations held Tuesday at the Al-Salam Rotana Hotel, the Chinese Ambassador stressed the importance of Sudan and its role in the African continent, praising the friendly relations between the two countries and considering them as a model for South-South cooperation. He pointed out to the concern of the two countries' leadership keenness to strengthen the bilateral cooperation by signing several agreements in all fields during the Beijing Summit, adding that China is paying more attention to the cooperation and rapprochement in Sino-Sudanese relations in a new manner in all fields for the benefit of the two peoples.

Republican Decree on Appointment of Federal Ministers
Khartoum, (SUNA)- The President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omar Hassan Ahmed Al Bashir, on Saturday issued a Republican Decree on the appointment of Ministers in the Government of National Accord, pursuant to Articles 58

(1) and 70 (2) of the Sudan Interim Constitution for 2005 amended for 2006, and after consultations with the Federal Prime Minister, as follows: -
-Dr Fadul Abdalla Fadul- Minister for the Presidency of the Republic
-Ahmed Saad Omar - Minister for the Council of Ministers
-Hamid Mohamed Al Nour Ahmed Mumtaz – Minister for Federal Government Chamber
-Lieutenant General Awad Mohamd Ahmed Ibin Aouf- Minister for Defense
-Dr Ahmed Bilal Osman- Minister for Interior
-Dr Dirdiri Mohamd Ahmed Al Dikhairi - Minister for Foreign Affairs
- Dr Mohamd Ahmed Salim- Minister for Justice
-Bushara Aro Jummaa – Minister for Information, Communications and Information Technology
-Mutaza Musa Abdalla Salim- Minister for Finance and Economic Planning
Engineer Hassab Al Nabi Musa Mohamed Minister for Agriculture and Forests
-Dr Musa Mohamed Karama- Minister for Industry and Trade
-Engineer Azahari Abdul Gadir Abdalla -Minister for Petroleum, Gas and Minerals
-Engineer Khidir Mohamed Gissm Al Sayed - Minister for Irrigation, Water Resources and Electricity
-Hatim Al Sir Ali -Minister for Transportations and Urban Development
-Ms. Mashayr Ahmed Al Amin Al Dawalab -Minister for Education
-Dr Sakeq Al Hadi Al Mahdi, Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research
-Omar Suleiman Adam Ibrahim – Minister for Culture, Tourism and Archaeology
-Engineer Widad Yagoub Ibrahim Osman Minister for Social Security and Development
-Dr Mohamed Abu Zaid- Minister for Health
-Bahar Idris Abu Gharda- Minister for Labour, Administrative Reform and Human Resources Development.

Al Hussein Governor of Khartoum
General (Police)Hashim Osman Al-Hussein took the oath of office in front of President Omer Al-Bashir as Governor of Khartoum State, replacing General Abdul Rahim Mohamed Hussein. In a press statement following the oath-taking ceremony, he said that the next phase requires concerted official and popular efforts for sake of citizens of the State, noting the importance of complementary roles between institutions, sectors and agencies to transit the state to a better position. “The next phase will be for consultations on the status of localities” he said, noting that they will start by setting out priorities with emphasis on security and rendering of services.

Sudanese- Korean city for spinning and weaving to be established
A delegation from South Korea visited the Gezira state in central Sudan to invest in fields of spinning and weaving, government of the Gezira revealed, pointing out that the visit signals undertaking of a feasibility study to establish a Sudanese-Korean industrial city for spinning and weaving. The visiting South Korean was headed by Korean ambassador in Khartoum, governor of Al Gezira, Mohammed Tahir Ella told “SMC”, indicating that the area of (Alnpti), which is located south of the state, was identified as location of the planned industrial city. The government of the state undertook a feasibility study to determine the timetable and total cost of the project, the governor stated, pointing out that the required space and leveling of land works have been completed. He concluded that such foreign investments will lend significant impetus to the national economy.

President Bashir returns from China
Khartoum, – Sudan’s President Omar Al-Bashir and his entourage returned here last night from a six-day official visit to Peoples China.
While in Beijing , President Bashir took part in the China-Africa Cooperation Forum which reviewed the Chinese “Road and Belt” initiative and further Chinese-African multi-sided cooperation. He also met with a number of African leaders on sidelines of the forum, including Presidents of Egypt , Uganda, Ethiopia and Rwanda as well as Commissioner of the African Union. A number of agreements were signed with the Chinese side involving cooperation in the oil, energy, rail transport fields.
President Bashir and accompanying delegation were received on arrival by First Vice-President and Premier Bakri Hassan Salih, government ministers and senior state officials.

President Al-Bashir Affirms Sudan Welcome to Chinese Companies
Beijing, (SUNA)- President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al-Bashir, received at his residence in Beijing, on the sidelines of the China – Africa Cooperation Forum, presidents of three Chinese companies, separately, and affirmed Sudan welcome to the Chinese companies to invest in the country, assuring the keenness to provide these companies with all privileges, facilities and protection. He said that Sudan is bestowed with enormous resources and potential and needs more investment in agriculture, livestock, oil and gas, infrastructures and ports. He indicated that Sudan was one of the first countries to receive Chinese companies and represents its gateway to Africa. Stressing that ample opportunities are available for the Chinese companies to work in Sudan. President Al-Bashir said that Sudan looks forward for more investments to contribute to development of its infrastructures. The three presidents of the Chinese companies were the chairman of the board of directors of China Ports engineering Company which has executed a number of projects in Sudan and signed agreement with GIAD Company for development of the Red Sea economic zone, Chairman of the board of directors of the Chinese Poly Company which is operating in the fields of ships and roads and the president China Railways Company (Section 16), which signed on Sunday a memo of understanding for establishing Port-Sudan – Ndjamena railway line at the length of 3200 kilometers

Meetings of Sudan’s Nuclear Program and the IAEA concluded
Khartoum, (SUNA) - The Sudanese Nuclear Generation Program and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) concluded their discussions, Sunday at the Grand Holiday Villa, on the report of the integrated review of the infrastructure of Sudan's nuclear program according to the IAEA standards. The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Water Resources, Irrigation and Electricity Engineer Musa Omar Abu al-Gassim said that the 7-day meetings with the IAEA mission was to assess the progress achieved by the Sudanese nuclear project to complete the first nuclear power plant, revealing IAEA approval of the Sudan report with certain recommendations, praising IAEA cooperation which appreciated the report of the Sudan, stressing that the Sudan has exerted much efforts to build the infrastructure of this project in partnership with the relevant bodies represented by the IAEA and the regulatory body of the nuclear energy. Engineer Abu al-Gassim pointed out to the developed relations with Russia, China and other countries that preceded Sudan in this field, which can provide mature technology to build nuclear power plants that support the generation of energy in Sudan, pointing out that the atomic energy is one of the safe and stable energies throughout the year, stressing that the energy is the main pillar of development projects in the field of production. He stressed the ministry's concern with provision of sustainable energy to the country by benefiting from the national cadres in partnerships with the technologies available in the countries of the world, pointing out that the International Atomic Energy Agency has given Sudan 90 days to approve the publication of its report on the IAEA website to exchange experiences among countries.

AU chooses Moussa Rahmatullah as representative in China
African Union (AU) Chairman Moussa Faki inaugurated African Union (AU) office on Sunday in the presence of the Chinese Foreign Minister in China during the seventh ministerial meeting of the African-China Cooperation Forum. He announced choosing of Ambassador Rahmatullah Mohamed Osman, as Permanent Representative of the African Union to China, residing in Beijing. This choice is an honor for Sudanese diplomacy and an appreciation of Sudan’s standing on the continent.

Foreign Minister begins African Tour
Khartoum, (SUNA)- The Foreign Minister, Al-Dirdiri Mohamed Ahmed, began Tuesday a second African tour which includes the Rwandan capital Kigali, and the Kenyan capital, Kenya, delegated by the President of the Republic for meeting with the Rwandan President and current Chairman of the African Union, Paul Kagame, and the Kenyan President, Uhuru Kenyatta. The spokesman of the Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Ghariballa Khidir, said that the Foreign Minister will inform the Rwandan and Kenyan leaders with outcome of the negotiations with South Sudan parties and the coming steps for realization of peace in South Sudan State. It is to be recalled that the first stage of the African tour paid by the Foreign Minister as the presidential envoy was conducted last week to Uganda, South Sudan State and Ethiopia where he met with leaders of the three countries.

International cooperation Ministry Affirms Support to Private Sector
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The International Cooperation Minister, Idris Sulaiman and delegation of Sudanese Businessmen Association headed by its General Secretary, Bakri Yousef, Tuesday discussed joint cooperating between Ministry and the association and ways to reactivate the joint business councils and attract funding for this sector such as European Investment Bank, African Development Bank and another fund institution. The minister affirmed in his meeting the role of the ministry in helping the private sector, referring to the importance of establishing a joint mechanism between Ministry and private sector to attract more funding and strengthening the role of private sector through exchange experience with countries, affirming the importance of conducting a study unit to know the comparative advantages in each country. Meanwhile Yousef confirmed the importance of this meeting and called for importance of intensification the coordination and consultation with the International Cooperation Ministry to make the private sector benefit of this chances that come from this country.

Al-Bashir: Sudan’s Experiences for Peace in South Sudan
Khartoum, (SUNA)-Sudan has stressed readiness to provide all facilitations and offer its experiences for realization of peace in South Sudan.
President of the Republic, Field Marsha Omer Al-Bashir , who was addressing the round of talks on facilitation of IGAD efforts to achieve peace in South Sudan in Friendship Hall in Khartoum Monday, renewed that endeavors being made by Sudan come with framework of IGAD and its effective mechanisms, expressing hope that Sudan efforts would add substance to IGAD and Africa endeavors. He welcomed the guests who attended the second step on seeking a just and comprehensive solution to crisis in South Sudan centering on 32 ordinary IGAD Summit in Addis Ababa that entrusted mandate upon Sudan to host the direct meeting between South Sudanese parties so as to overcome the crisis their country is experiencing. President Al-Bashir said sitting of the different parties together to seek solutions was an indication that there are some problems and that the concern of the homeland and common challenges are above the differences of whatever they are, would not reach to bloodletting and squandering the country’s wealth and future.

Talks to resume Oil Production begin between Khartoum and Juba
Khartoum, (SUNA) - Talks began in Khartoum Monday between Sudan and South Sudan on the technical issues relating to re-operation of the oil fields in South Sudan and exchange of benefits between the two countries. The agenda of the talks included resuming the oil production at the squares (1,2,4) in South Sudan and also continuing the oil production at square A5, drawing up a track for transporting the materials used at the oil fields, the transfer of the technical data and information, ways to supply the pumping stations with fuel, rehabilitation of the central processing stations and the transportation lines, constructing of measurements units, enhancing the work environment and security for the oil fields. Meanwhile, the Minister of Energy of South Sudan, Ezekiel Lol Gatkouth, has underscored importance of the technical talks for resuming the production at Tom, Al-Tar, Muga, Unity and Sarjat oil fields and increasing the oil production fields at Faluj.

Minister of International Cooperation meets IOM Director
Khartoum, (SUNA) – The Minister of International Cooperation Idris Sulaiman discussed Monday with the new Chief of the Mission of the International Organization for Migration (IOM)-Khartoum office Ms. Catherine Northing the joint cooperation between the Ministry of International Cooperation and the Organization and ways of boosting them further. The Minister briefed IOM Director on the great steps taken by the government of Sudan, through its various agencies, to ensure the success of the issues related to migration, reverse migration and other asylum issues and their impact on host communities. He revealed that IOM signed in 2017 the United Nations Development Assistance Framework (UNDAF) program in order to serve as one of the UN agencies mandated to implement the Sustainable Development Strategy 2015-2030, praising the organization's approach to opening several offices in the states through which migrants enter to facilitate daily reports. For her part, Ms. Northing stressed that the meeting was fruitful during which she briefed the minister on the plans and programs carried out by the organization in Sudan, which consisted of integrated assessment, reintegration and helping to achieve social stability in the targeted areas as well as data collection and working to develop Sudanese personnel capacities in the immigration management and linking it to the regional and international framework. She added that the organization has provided assistance to Sudanese migrants who were stranded abroad and requested returning home, pointing out that the IOM is expanding its services in the collection of migration and research information. The meeting underscored the importance of the organization concentration of its efforts, with the international and regional partners and donors to address refugee and migrant issues in Sudan. It was also agreed that the strategy of the organization to discussed in a joint inclusive meeting with the government partners in Khartoum next August.

President of the Republic Awards Golden Production Orders to Industry Pioneers
Khartoum, (SUNA)- President of the Republic, Field Marshal Omer Al-Bashir, has issued a Republican Decree awarding the Golden and Silver Production orders to industry pioneers in recognition of their considerable efforts and effective contribution to supporting the development and production process. The Golden Production orders were offered by the end of Made in Sudan Exhibition to the businessmen Muawiya Mohamed Ahmed Al-Berair, Usama Daoud Abdul-Latif, Wajdi Mirghani Mahjoub, Samir Ahmed Gasim, Hassan Ibrahim Malik and Abdul-Rahman Abbas Mohamed Hassanain. The Silver Production Orders were awarded to Siddiq Mohamed Khair of North Kordofan, Abdul-Moniem Musa Abdul-Moniem of Gezira State and Yahia Fadul Ishaq of South Darfur State.

Presidency Affirms Support for Industry, Awards Gold Medal for Industrial Sector
Khartoum – FVP, National Prime Minister 1st Lt Gen. Bakri Hassan Saleh stressed the interest of the state in the industrial sectors. Addressing the conclusion of "Made in Sudan" exhibition, FVP stressed the state's commitment to support the industry and export trend to reach exports to 111 billion by the end of the economic program, praising the development of national industry, saying that this session of the exhibition came in Ramadan to meet the needs of citizens at suitable prices. State Minister of Ministry of Industry, Abdo Daoud stressed that the exhibition proved that the Sudanese industry finds acceptance, respect and satisfaction of the Sudanese citizen, confirming the ministry's support for the chambers and industrialists and solving their problems, indicating the follow-up of the presidency and its interest in the industry. Chairman of the Federation of Industrial Chambers, Muawia Al-Bereir stressed that the industrialists are united to meet the challenges facing the industry, noting that the private sector is the spearhead in development and will lead the process of construction, saying their that honoring from the presidency is an honor to all workers in industry. The Presidency awarded gold production medal of the sector to Muawiya Al-Birair, Osama Dawood, Wajdy Mirghani, Samir Ahmed Qassem, Hassan Ibrahim Malik, Abdul Rahman Abbas Mohamed Hassanean.

Government: Openness in Cooperation with China in Oil Field
Khartoum- Minister of Petroleum and Gas Engineer Azhari Abdul-Gadir Abdallah has said that the coming stage would witness openness in cooperation with China in oil field, describing China as basic partner in utilization of the Sudanese petroleum, referring to the close cooperation with China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), which is considered as a model for international partnership. The Minister affirmed during a meeting with the Chinese Ambassador to Sudan yesterday the importance of developing the partnership to increase the economic return for the state by increasing oil production and safeguarding the rights of the partners in accordance with the agreement organizing investments in the field of oil and gas. The meeting discussed ways and means of boosting cooperation between Sudan and China in the field of oil and enhancing the existing cooperation on the bases of common interests besides endeavors for increasing Chinese investments in the field of oil in Sudan. The Chinese Ambassador, on his part, said cooperation with Sudan is based on friendship and mutual confidence and that it is accorded concern by the leaderships of the two countries in accordance with the strategic relations, a matter that has enabled realizing considerable interests for the two countries. He indicated that the joint cooperation in oil industry led to boosting cooperation in other fields, affirming that the successes realized in extraction of the Sudanese petroleum, training and introduction of technologies through CNPC is conducive for enhancing cooperation, affirming desire of the company to increase its investments despite the international challenges in oil industry.

Turkish Deputy Prime Minister arrives in Sudan
Turkish Deputy Prime Minister, Hakan Jawish will arrive Sudan on Tuesday to hold discussions with First Vice President, Bakri Hassan Salih in addition to his visit to Sawakin Island in order to find out the projects of restoration of historic buildings. A statement issued by the media center of Turkish official on Sunday said visit of Deputy Prime Minister will take two days which witnesses discussions in Khartoum in addition to visit of Projects of Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TICCA) for restoration of historic buildings of Sawakin island on Red Sea coast.

CBoS develops new controls to enable banks to deal with their counterparts abroad
Khartoum, (SUNA) - The Central Bank of Sudan's (CBoS) Assistant Governor for the Financial Institutions and Systems Sector Awad Ali Abdullah Abu Shuk said that CBoS has set new controls, following the partial lifting of the economic sanctions imposed on Sudan, to enable Sudanese banks to deal with their foreign counterparts. This came during his speech Monday at the opening session of the Forum on the Requirements for Dealing with Correspondent Banks, which was organized by the Union of Sudanese Banks and the Union of Arab Banks under the auspices of the Central Bank of Sudan at Al-Salam Rotana Hotel Rotana. Abu Shuk said the central bank aims at encouragement of exports, increase of competitiveness in new markets and creation of conducive environment for the entry of investors in the fields of production and exports. The CBoS Assistant Governor urged the banks to complete dealing with the international banks, stressing the importance of removing barriers preventing benefiting from the payment systems and Arabic and non-Arabic facilities. The Secretary General of the Union of Arab Banks Wisam Hassan Fattouh underlined partnership between the public and private banks to finance small and medium enterprises and to create jobs for youth to fight unemployment. Fattouh pointed out that the governments and Arab Central Banks should encourage the spirit of action to combat unemployment, hoping that banks will encourage the financing of some projects for the of society development.

Foreign Minister meets German Deputy Foreign Minister
Khartoum,(SUNA)- The Minister for Defense, Professor Ibrahim Ghandour, met with the German Deputy Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, where the two sides reviewed development and promotion of bilateral relations between the two countries. Professor Ghandour said Sudan welcomes German companies wishing to operate in the Sudan, referring in particular to Siemens Company which resumed operation in the Sudan. The minister commended the German efforts in boosting peace process in Darfur referring in particular to the unofficial meeting between the government of the Sudan and the rebel movements from Darfur region which took place in Germany, with the aim of bringing closer the views of the two sides. The German Deputy Foreign minister, Valetta Lynder has underlined the particular bonds linking the Sudan and Germany saying his country is committed to continue its efforts for brining closer the views of the Sudanese government and that of the rebel movements The German official referred to the vital role played by the Sudan in bringing in stability in the region, saying this would encourage more German companies to come and invest in the country and would help promote the economic relations between the two sides.

FM: Sudan Supports and Backs Ethiopia
Khartoum Sudan on Saturday issued a statement declaring its support and backing for Ethiopia at this critical juncture, in a way that will preserve the unity of the Ethiopian people, civil peace and security among the different components of Ethiopia. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Ambassador Ghariballah Al-Khidir, issued a statement saying the Sudan renews its confidence in the wisdom of the Ethiopian leadership to make a smooth transition. The statement said that given the strong historic, joint interest, and fate that link Ethiopia and the Sudan, the Ministry of foreign Affairs has been following closely the development of the political situation in Ethiopia following the submission of the resignation by his Excellency Hailemariam Desalegn as Prime Minister and from the Secretariat General of the Ruling Party. The ministry expressed the confidence of the government of the Sudan in the wisdom of the Ethiopian leadership and its ability to achieve a smooth transition, would like to reaffirm Sudan's support and backing and its firm stand beside sister Ethiopia at this critical juncture, in a way to preserve the unity of Ethiopian peoples and their cohesion, the steadfastness, unison and peace among the various components so that the continuation of the great achievements during the past decade are sustained, the statement said. The statement said the government of the Sudan expresses its full confidence in the wisdom of the Ethiopian government and all the political forces, and their strong will and determination and sincere work to serve and protect the higher interests of sisterly Ethiopian people.

Gedarif Realizes High Productivity of Sesame Crop
Khartoum - Gedarif State has realized high productivity of sesame crop this season compared to previous years, registering four quintals a feddan, despite lower rainfall witnessed by the state this year. Director of Ministry of Agriculture of Gedarif State Dr. Nafisa Noah Mohamed has said in a statement to SUNA that harvest operations for sesame crop were realized in a satisfactory way, indicating that the harvest of sorghum crop has so far been achieved at the ratio of 60%, promising high productivity. She pointed out that is state is planning to implement water harvesting projects to achieve sustainable agricultural production, especially that the state depends on rain-fed farming.

Agricultural Bank Signs Agreement with Turkey's Okan Group
Khartoum - (SUNA) The Agricultural Bank of Sudan has signed an agreement with the Turkey's Okan Group for establishing and financing silos, warehouses, wheat supply and export of agricultural products. The Deputy General Manager of the Agricultural Bank of Sudan Abdel-Gadir Osman Hassan signed on behalf of the bank and Mohamed Arkan and Mohamed Akef for the Turkish Okan Group. As part of its policy of attracting foreign investment, the Agricultural Bank received a number of delegations and companies of friendly countries last week to push forward agricultural development efforts and support the role of the Agricultural Bank in rural development including delegations from Turkey, Germany and Belarus.

FAO Regional Conference kicks off Monday in Khartoum
Khartoum, (SUNA) - The 30th Regional Conference of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is due to be held on Sunday at the Friendship Hall in Khartoum with the participation of 50 countries, 38 ministers of agriculture, 450 participants representing senior African professionals and five observing countries including the United States, Canada, England, France and the Vatican and 17 international organizations. The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry Badr-Eddin Al-Shaikh announced, in statement to SUNA, completion of the preparations for the conference in Khartoum and the arrival of the delegations that confirmed their participation, where the opening session is to start with the meeting of the Senior Officials and to be addressed by the Minister of Agriculture as well as the FAO Assistant Director General and Director of the Regional Office for Africa. Dr. Al-Shaikh explained that the opening session of the Ministerial Conference would begin next Thursday and would be addressed by the First Vice President and National Prime Minister Lt. Ge. Bakri Hassan Saleh, the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, FAO Director General, Chairman of FAO Independent Council, the Former President of FAO Regional Conference and President of NEPAD The undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture said that the conference would conclude its sessions on Friday and issue the Khartoum statement and then be followed by a press conference.