January 09, 2008	Wednesday	Zilhaj 29, 1428

TOKYO, Jan 8: Japan is likely to announce a $2.29bn aid package to improve infrastructure in Africa, where it is competing with China for influence, Kyodo news agency said on Tuesday, citing government sources.

Japan will likely announce the deal when it hosts a conference for African leaders in May, Kyodo said.

The aid would be used to improve port facilities in Madagascar and to help develop resources in countries such as Ghana and Guinea, Kyodo said.—Reuters