Ethiopia inaugurated a major Chinese-built road project on Monday in the capital, Addis Ababa.

The Alexander Pushkin Square-Gotera Interchange Road Project, a 3.8-kilometer road that incorporates three segments and includes a two-lane, 320-meter tunnel, was built by China First Highway Engineering Co.

Addis Ababa Mayor Adanech Abiebie said during the inauguration that the project is a manifestation of Ethiopia's commitment to undertaking vital development projects in a short period of time.

"This road project, in addition to setting a good example of an excellent road project execution for the city and our country, will also tremendously improve the traffic flow in this highly congested part of the city," Abiebie said.

She expressed appreciation to "the Chinese people and government for this magnificent project, both in terms of financing and executing the project".

Abiebie emphasized that in addition to alleviating traffic flow, the new roadway adds to the area's aesthetics.

The timely completion of the project, which was launched in October 2019, was said to be another milestone that will serve as an example for similar large-scale development projects in the East African country.

Shen Qinmin, charge d'affaires and minister counselor of the Chinese embassy in Ethiopia, said the project is a symbol of cooperation and friendship between China and Ethiopia.

Shen said China and Ethiopia are all-weather brothers.

The two countries have adopted development strategies that are highly compatible and engaged in fruitful cooperation that sets the pace for China-Africa cooperation in general, he said.

"China, as a developing country, fully understands the needs and aspirations of the Ethiopian people and government," Shen said. "We know how important roads or infrastructure are for the true realization of national dreams and economic development as well."

He affirmed that China continues to be Ethiopia's genuine and sincere development partner.

Xinhua