Shabait.com (Asmara)
21 May 2008
Asmara — The Minister of Finance, Mr. Berhane Abrehe, the Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Arefaine Berhe, and the Head of Economic Affairs at the PFDJ, Mr. Hagos Gebrehiewet, respectively pointed out that the philosophy and policy of the Eritrean government and the People's Front as regards economy aim at ensuring social justice through equitable distribution of national resources. They made the remarks in a panel discussion they conducted with ERI-TV in connection with the 17th Anniversary of Independence Day.
The officials indicated that the policy on the basis of the principle of self-reliance is designed to properly utilize the existing national resources and improve the people's standard of living.
In view of the fact that this policy is both correct and reliable, the officials underscored that encouraging accomplishments have been registered in the task of putting in place infrastructure through active popular participation taking into consideration the challenging situation and the acts of hostility being waged. They further explained that the gap between the rich and the poor has been narrowed as a result of the endeavors made primarily targeting the rural areas.
The officials went on to underline that the major economic growth scored in between 1993 and 1998 fully attest to the correct policy of the Government. The major tasks accomplished on the basis of the principle of self-reliance, while at the same time rebuffing the conspiracies of the TPLF regime and big powers, could be described as a miracle, they added.
Replaying to a question regarding international cooperation policy based on partnership, the officials pointed out that the opportunity remains open in Eritrea to those who seek to work in partnership and for mutual benefit. Despite the fact that international cooperation focusing on trade and investment did not progress at the desired level, nonetheless it is currently showing promising prospects and that solid ground is being laid for further progress, they elaborated.
The officials further stated that although the country's economy has been negatively affected by the TPLF regime's war of aggression and fluctuations in the world market, the challenge is being tackled through the steadfastness and coordinated endeavors of the Eritrean people. They also outlined the mechanism that could be employed to cope with the rising price of commodities.
As regards the private sector, the officials explained that the door remains open to the private sector provided the rules and regulations are respected and those involved work for the benefit of the public. "Continued efforts are being made to encourage not only domestic owners of capital but also expatriates," they noted.
Indicating that major programs have been implemented in the construction of micro-dams, water reservoirs, terraces and the like aimed at achieving food security, the officials outlined the accomplishments registered in promoting the development of livestock.
Mr. Berhane, Mr. Arefaine and Mr. Hagos asserted that the integrated endeavors being made to rebuff enemy hostilities would definitely triumph. To this end, they called on all citizens to step up their active participation in the economic development drive.
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