Brazzaville: The Angolan ambassador to the Republic of Congo, Vicente Muanda, has stressed the need for enhanced trade cooperation between Angola and Congo, focusing on managing the influx of Angolan products into Congolese markets. This statement comes ahead of the inauguration of Congolese President Denis Sassou-Nguesso Nguesso.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Ambassador Muanda highlighted that despite improvements in production within Angola, a significant number of goods are crossing the border informally. This lack of official registration restricts potential economic benefits for both nations. "If we go to the local markets, we find several products from Angola, but which do not enter officially. We need to regularize this situation so that the State knows what enters, how it enters and who benefits," Muanda stated.
Muanda emphasized the importance of formalizing cross-border trade to shift its benefits from individual interests to generating formal revenue for both countries. Harmonizing trade regulations is identified as a priority in their bilateral cooperation agenda. He also underscored the strong historical ties between Angola and the Republic of Congo, advocating for their revitalization through concrete actions, particularly in the context of African economic integration.
Addressing the regulation of the common border, especially in the Massabi area in Cabinda, Muanda deemed it essential for ensuring equitable benefits for both states.
Beyond economic concerns, the diplomat also discussed the Angolan community in the Republic of Congo, numbering over 5,000, primarily in Pointe-Noire and southern regions. Despite progress in issuing official documents, Muanda acknowledged the ongoing need to bolster social and consular support for these residents. He noted that Angolans are predominantly engaged in small businesses within formal and informal trade sectors.
The roots of this community trace back to periods of the Angolan liberation struggle and civil war, during which many sought refuge in Congo. Recent migratory trends are driven by economic, familial, and commercial motivations.
