Moroni, Comoros: Eisam Al Fahim, Chairman of the board of HSS, specialists in marine transportation projects, yesterday announced it has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Government of Comoros Islands to establish the core of a comprehensive marine transportation project that will link the country's four major islands.
Signed under the patronage of Ahmad Abdullah Sambi, President of the Comoros Republic, the MoU include linking the islands with the eastern coast of Africa and establish crucial maritime links with the rest of the world.
The MoU was initialled by Eisam Al Fahim of HSS and Hasani Al Somani, representitve of the Comoros islands, in Moroni, the Comoros capital.
The MoU is the outcome of a special conference held in Doha that aimed to support Comoros, an Arab Islamic country with African heritage.
Al Fahim said: "The forum in Doha aimed to support Comoros in developing its infrastructure. Marine transportation is key to the development of the country as it will serve to sustain our economic growth.
‘Industry expertise'
"HSS has strong industry expertise and has a track record of implementing marine transportation projects around the world for over 100 years. We believe we will be able to execute the project within the stipulated timeframe."
A HSS delegation recently visited Comoros Islands to identify the viablity of the project. During the visit, Ahmad Abdullah Sambi briefed HSS officials about the benefits the project will bring to the national economy.
Cargo traffic
The project is expected to facilitate passenger and cargo traffic between the islands, while helping the country's economic growth.
Michael Vossenberg, the vice president and member of the boards explained: "The 300 million Euro project will include four berths and one international terminal in the capital Moroni, to be built in accordance with world class safety standards in each of the islands to accommodate large vessels including ferries that will be used in the transportation of cargo as well as passengers."
