Niger-Togo: Officialisation of the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of transport and trade

Since the sadistic sanctions of ECOWAS, with the closure of the borders of neighbouring countries, Niger has turned resolutely to Lomé. Nigerian economic operators have chosen the Autonomous Port of Lomé through which they will transit their goods. In view of the significant economic flow that this generates, the two States have decided to formalize this partnership component.

It is in this perspective that the Government of Niger, represented by the Minister of Transport and Infrastructure, Colonel Major Salissou Mahaman Salissou, signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Republic of Togo, represented by the Minister of Land Transport, Air and Railways, Mr Affo Atcha Dédji, last Friday. The agreement aims to establish a framework for bilateral cooperation to facilitate the transport of goods between the two countries.

The purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding is to establish an institutional framework for cooperation in the fields of trade, transport and transit. It will facilitate the transport of goods to Niger via the Lomé-Ouaga-Niamey (LON) corridor and other relevant corridors to be defined jointly, in accordance with the vision of the authorities of both countries.

During the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding, Colonel Major Salissou Mahaman Salissou did not fail to express his gratitude to the Togolese authorities for their support to Nigerians during the difficult times caused by the ECOWAS sanctions.

On behalf of the Togolese Government, Minister Affo Atcha Dedji conveyed the patriotic greetings of President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé to Brigadier General Abdourahmane Tiani, affirming Togo’s will to accompany Niger in its struggle for the restoration and affirmation of its sovereignty.

For the joint implementation of this agreement, the two parties have agreed to set up a joint joint committee that will meet every six months, alternately in Niger and Togo.

Soucre LARE