Angola, DRC, and Zambia Experts Conclude Lobito Corridor Transport Meeting
Experts from Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia wrapped up a multi-day meeting in Lobito today December 15th, focusing on groundwork for the inaugural session of the Transport Facilitation Agency of Lobito Corridor Transit (AFTTCL) Ministers Committee.
The initial discussions centered on the ratification of the Lobito Corridor Tripartite Transit Transport Facilitation Agreement among the three member states.
Additionally, key aspects included the establishment of the AFTTCL Provisional Secretariat and deliberations on the master plan for the corridor.
Pedro Maza, Director of the Legal and Exchange Office of the Ministry of Transport, highlighted the meeting’s significance in aligning with the government’s strategy to revitalize the Lobito Corridor.
He emphasized recent initiatives supporting the corridor’s development, citing the signed Memorandum in Brussels involving the European Union, the United States, African Development Bank, and African Finance Corporation. This meeting aimed to harmonize interests and initiatives to further the corridor’s growth.
Maza recalled the Agency’s establishment earlier in the year, followed by a Technical Group meeting in August. The upcoming Committee of Ministers’ session will formalize the agency’s establishment, headquartered in Lobito in the near future, following Angola’s submission of the ratified letter.
He emphasized the corridor’s role in international traffic facilitation and cost reduction for cargo and passenger movement, urging prompt internal approval or ratification by member states to maximize the advantages swiftly.
