The Abia State government says it is partnering with its neighbouring state, Akwa Ibom, for the establishment of a rail line that will link the two states.

This is even as the Abia State Government is wooing a Chinese firm for the building of a seaport in the state.

The state, Dr. Alex Otti, who made these known while hosting a delegation of a Chinese firm, China Harbour Engineering Company Ltd, which paid him a visit in his office, stressed the Importance of the railway project to the economic prosperity of his state.

Otti told the delegation that the Akwa Ibom State Government had indicated interest in collaborating with Abia State to link the two states with a rail line.

He explained that the plans, if achieved, would promote trading activities between the two states.

“And the last time I discussed with my colleague in Akwa Ibom State, he also indicated intention to link Akwa Ibom with Abia because of the trading and cultural affinity.

“So, maybe it’s something that you may want to have a look at. There is a design already, you may condemn it and do your own,” Otti said.

The governor expressed his desire for the company to be part of the Abia Industrial and Innovation Park (AIIP) project at Owaza, Ukwa West LGA, as well as the revival of some of the moribund industries in the state.

Meanwhile, Governor Otti has said the state government would partner the company in the development of the Azumini Seaport in Ukwa East LGA.

Otti announced that the feasibility study for the Azumini Seaport project is being concluded, and expressed the hope the company will equally partner Abia in erosion control in the state.

Managing Director of the Chinese company, Jason Wang, had earlier told Otti his firm was ready to partner the Abia State in project executions.

Wang said the delegation was in the state to engage in high-level discussions with the Abia State government on potential infrastructure projects and to establish a strategic partnership for the state’s development. (The Sun)