The new headquarters of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Addis Ababa, January 11, 2012 (Addis Ababa) – Prime Minister Meles Zenawi said the recently-completed conference centre of the new headquarters of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa is a timely manifestation for the level of Africa and China friendship.
While visiting the complex here on Wednesday the premier said the new building is a testimony for their keen to work closely.
Fully backed by the Chinese government, the construction and furbishing of the complex has taken 200 million US dollars.
PM Meles said Ethiopia provided 130,000 square of land with lease and exempt taxes for materials imported for the construction.
He said Ethiopia had played great role with African Union to lobby the Chinese government to build the complex.
The construction has been completed after three years and expected to be inaugurated in the coming 18 AU Summit in January, 2012.
The new complex covers 112,000 sqm and comprises a 20-storey main office building, a 2,500 person-capacity conference centre and a sub-conference building with 41 conference rooms.
The circular building incorporates environmentally-friendly design concepts and energy-saving technologies, it was learnt.
African Union Chairperson Jean Ping, ministers and officials from the AU and the Addis Ababa City Administration have also visited the complex.
Video: The new headquarters of the African Union (AU) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The new grand building is an indication that chinese commitment to develpomants in africa
Bravo! ethiopian government