Durban, South Africa •• Dec. 14, 2000 •• SolarQuest® iNet News Service ••
Today I had the opportunity to spend a few minutes with Mr Jirajuddin H. Yousuf who is Charge d'Affaires a.i of Sudan in South Africa.What power resources does Sudan have?
Sudan has many hydro-electric power sources as well as some natural gass deposits. What about oil?
Sudan does have oil deposits. In fact, in August this year a large oil deposit was found in Al Fola. Oil is considered to be "black gold" - what kind of trading partners have you developed from this resource?
We trade oil mainly with Malaysia and China. Is there any specific reason as to why the focus is on Asian countries?
These countries were the only available trading partners - the US refused to trade with us due to our political orientation, although we are currently a democracy. What do you feel about trade relations with the US now?
We recognise the technological and economic importance of the US, and in spite of political setbacks, we are keen to keep avenues open. We can do without the US due to our oil resources, but we would welcome an opportunity to cultivate a relationship with them. (Sudan was not invited to the last US/Africa Energy Conference held in Arizona 1999) How do you feel about being shunned by the US last year?
It's no big thing. One last question: what do you think of the US elections that have just taken place, and the ensuing problems?
I think that it is an example of solid democracy! However, I would prefer Bush to win - I feel that other candidates have hidden agendas. I also feel that Bush would look into re-constructing US-Sudanese relations, something which I obviously support.
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