South Sudan, China sign media development pact

China and South Sudan on Tuesday signed a technical cooperation agreement for the modernization of state broadcasters in the East African nation.

The agreement for upgrading and modernization of broadcast studios at the state-owned radio and television was signed by senior officials from the country's Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and officials from the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan.

Justin Allier De Mayen, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, said the China-aided project estimated to cost about 15 million U.S. dollars will enable the construction of two state of the art broadcast studios and also offer capacity building for South Sudanese journalists through media exchanges.

Mayen appreciated Beijing for its support to the development of the media sector in the conflict-torn nation, adding that the two countries will continue to strengthen relations for the welfare of their people.

"With this signature, we have stepped a milestone in our bilateral cooperation with the People's Republic of China that has been so generous with the people of South Sudan," Mayen said.

Mayen said the modern studios, if completed, would improve the quality of programs aired by the state broadcasters.

"This is something that we have been yearning for so long because our TV and radio have been lacking studios. Our people will be better served in the area of media and technology that will also lead to freedom of media," Mayen added.

Cai Senming, Economic and Commercial Counselor at the Chinese Embassy in South Sudan, said the project to be undertaken by Chinese engineers would start soon.

He added that the grant is part of China's effort to help the world's youngest country attain stability and prosperity.