A General Framework Agreement (CGA) was signed today between Mauritius and Tanzania at the headquarters of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade in Port Louis. The agreement aims to strengthen collaboration between the two countries in traditional sectors and pave the way for new avenues of cooperation.

The signatories were the Foreign Secretary, Ambassador Haymandoyal Dillum, and the High Commissioner of the United Republic of Tanzania to Mauritius, with residence in Harare, Zimbabwe, Professor Emmanuel Mwaluko Luhembe Mbennah. The Minister of Land Transport and Light Rail, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Regional Integration and International Trade, Mr. Alan Ganoo; private sector representatives; and other personalities were present at the signing ceremony.

In his address, Minister Ganoo stressed that the signing of this GFA not only testifies to the existing high-level relationship between Mauritius and Tanzania, but also marks the beginning of many new opportunities for bilateral cooperation. “This agreement,” he underlined, “shows the commitment of both countries to work together to prosper despite the difficult times of the COVID-19 pandemic, and demonstrates the determination to remain focused on common objectives.”

The Minister stressed that the agreement constitutes an important stepping stone for increased comprehensive cooperation while promoting collaboration between Mauritian and Tanzanian economic, scientific, technical and cultural institutions, and encouraging the exchange of experiences as well as information. in areas of mutual interest. “It also paves the way for a permanent joint commission on cooperation, and this instrument will facilitate regular dialogue and ensure proper follow-up to outstanding issues and agreements,” he added.

Furthermore, Minister Ganoo pointed out that with the entry into force of the African Continental Free Trade Area in 2021, there are opportunities to expand businesses, attract investors and foster economic growth. He observed that with its rich natural resources, including mines for the extraction of liquefied natural gas and vast agricultural lands, Tanzania represented a land of real investment opportunities. He also expressed his belief that the two countries, through joint efforts, could find innovative ways to boost bilateral trade and investment.

For his part, High Commissioner Mbennah said the signing of the ACM marked the beginning of a high level of cooperation between the two countries. He praised the good bilateral relations and the educational opportunities that Mauritius offered to Tanzania.

The Tanzanian High Commissioner reiterated his country’s commitment to further strengthen bilateral ties with Mauritius, and its desire, among others, to establish stronger collaboration in several sectors such as tourism, services, trade and finances; seek to continue the dialogue on ways in which Tanzania can learn from Mauritius; examine the best possible ways to increase sugar production; and make good use of the large market available for sugar in Tanzania and neighboring countries.

Furthermore, Mr. Mbennah encouraged more Mauritian investors to invest in his country, before commending the Mauritian government for its generous donation of some 100,000 COVID-19 vaccines to Tanzania.

Courtesy visit to Minister Ganoo

In a statement after the signing ceremony, Minister Ganoo recalled that prior to the signing of the ACM, High Commissioner Mbennah paid him a courtesy visit. “Discussions,” he pointed out, “covered areas of cooperation at the bilateral, regional and continental levels.”

He underscored that Tanzania was a land of vast opportunities and expressed his hope that with the signing of the GFA, the private sectors of the two countries would strengthen their relationship. He also hoped that investments from Mauritius to Tanzania and vice versa would be strengthened in the areas of fishing, cotton, leather and sugar, among others.