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The Southern Africa Cross Border Traders Association (SACBTA) Zambia has urged the government and their Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) counterparts to urgently address security concerns that recently led to the temporary closure of borders between the two countries.
The government announced that the borders had been reopened following a closed-door meeting with Congolese officials, who insisted that trade should not be disrupted by border closures prior to dialogue.
Jacob Makambwe, Secretary General of SACBTA, told Zambia Monitor in Lusaka on Tuesday that President Hakainde Hichilema should leverage his position as SADC Troika Chair on Defence and Security to engage with his Congolese counterpart to resolve the security concerns.
Makambwe also called for a review and update of the 2015 trade agreement to address the current challenges between the two nations.
“The 2015 agreement between the two countries is a positive step forward. Traders who rely on cross-border trade will benefit from improved relations and reduced border restrictions, unlike what recently transpired,” he said.
He stated the importance of broad consultation during the review process to ensure that all stakeholders’ interests were represented.
Makambwe highlighted the necessity of continued dialogue and cooperation to address emerging issues, advocating for regular reviews and updates of agreements to reflect changing circumstances.
Read More: Zambia closes DRC borders, as tension mounts in Congo over govt’s ban on beverages, lime
“Inconsistent implementation of bilateral trade rules can lead to issues like border closures. Security is a critical aspect of trade and regional development,” Makambwe stated.
He stressed that leaders should prioritize security concerns and facilitate discussions to resolve issues, as regional security and cooperation are vital for economic development.
Additionally, he said there was need for consistent implementation of trade agreements and prioritization of security in trade and regional development.
Makambwe praised the decision to reopen borders such as Kasumbalesa, Mokambo and Sikania, calling it commendable.
He urged both countries to build on this progress and work towards a more comprehensive and mutually beneficial trade relationship.
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