Meles was speaking here on Tuesday at the Ethio-Sudan Second High Level Joint Commission Meeting.

Describing Sudan as Ethiopia's highly valued partner, Prime Minister Meles said all the necessary instruments have been put in place to allow for even better cooperation between the two countries.

The current level of cooperation between the two countries has taken a new height, he said adding the two countries have been working towards the enhancement of ties in economic, social and political areas.

Meles said due attention has been attached to transboundary infrastructure development, particularly road link, between the two neighboring nations.

He expressed satisfaction in the work, which he said, was well done so far. "I have no doubt we should do more."

Commending Sudanese President Omar el-Beshir's commitment for the enhancement of bilateral cooperation, Meles said such would help ensure the mutual benefits of the two nations. "It is our conviction that it is only mutual consideration that can ensure a bright future for all."

Meles also said as their multilateral cooperation in the framework of IGAD, Ethiopia and the Sudan should live up to their obligations towards the peace, security and development of the region as a whole.

He said the implementation of the CPA (Comprehensive Peace Agreement) is critical, not only for peace in the Sudan but also for the eastern Africa region.

The Ethiopian government, Meles said, would not accept the arrest warrant issued by the ICC for the Sudanese president, and the reason for Ethiopia's rejection of the arrest warrant goes beyond personal.

"This is a position that we will continue to stand by not as a favor to president Beshir but as a matter of principle and because the opposite course of action is neither in the interest of peace, nor in the interest of justice."

In a joint statement given by Prime Minister Meles and President Omar el-Beshir, the former said Ethiopia is for AU's resolve to lobby for a reversal of the arrest warrant.

The Sudanese delegation on its part commended Ethiopia for the firm and principled stand it has taken in the issue of the ICC arrest warrant.

El-Beshir said Ethiopia and the Sudan have been working in partnership to help meet the challenges facing the continent.

He said the two countries should continue to cooperate in the framework of bilateral relations as well as of IGAD towards bringing about viable peace, security and stability in the region.

Ethiopia is not a member of the ICC signatories and thus is not bound by its statutes and orders.

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