Manama: Kuwait on Wednesday said that it has earmarked $500 million (Dh1.83 billion) worth of aid for the implementation of infrastructural and social services projects in eastern Sudan.
The announcement was made by Dr Shaikh Mohammad Sabah Al Sabah, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, as he addressed in Kuwait City the International Donors and Investors Conference for East Sudan, Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) reported.
"I am pleased to announce the donation of the state of Kuwait of $500 million for east Sudan development," Foreign Minister Shaikh Mohammad Al Sabah announced at the opening ceremony.
Up to $450 million will be allocated for the implementation of infrastructural ventures, while the remaining $50 million will be granted for social services, he said.
Thirty-nine countries, 28 world renowned institutions and 73 non-government organisations (NGO) are participating in the two-day conference hosted by Kuwait.
The promised fund will be granted through the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development (KFAED) that has supported Sudan since its inception in 1962.
Iran also pledged $200 million to help develop eastern Sudan, Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki told the conference on Wednesday.
More pledges are expected to be announced before the end of the forum on Thursday.
