Sudanese Finance Minister Ibrahim Elbadawi said that UAE investments in the African country have touched on seven billion dollars.
Elbadawi, after receiving UAE Energy Minister Suhail Al Mazroui, who is paying the African country a two-day visit, stressed that the Sudanese government is working to build a solid economic partnership with the UAE.
The UAE, for its part, renewed its keenness to work with the transitional government of Sudan in order to open up the country’s market and make it more attractive to investors.
In a joint press conference with Elbadawi, Mazroui expressed hope for working with the Sudanese government in this regard.
This, according to the minister would be based on the resources and expertise owned by Sudan, in addition to its people who are able to bring change in the country.
During his visit, Mazroui will discuss economic cooperation between the two countries and UAE investments in Sudan as part of his country's efforts to support Sudan during the transition period.
Foreign investments had suffered badly under Sudan’s former regime.
Among the many problems investors faced were weak infrastructure, poor management, political, economic and security turmoil, exchange rate instability and high inflation, as well as banking problems.
“Sudan must change the previous concepts; especially since it has many elements to create a better reality,” Mazroui said.
“Development in Sudan will create good job opportunities for young people,” he added.
Elbadawi said that the Sudanese government is ready to cooperate with the UAE in a transparent manner to build a solid foundation for their relationship.
He pointed out that the UAE investments in Sudan amounted to $7 billion, despite the deteriorating economic conditions and poor business environment.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are among the biggest supporters of Sudan's transitional government, especially after the ouster of former President Omar al-Bashir.