On Wednesday, Algerian Customs Director-General, Major General Abdelhafid Bekhous, and his accompanying delegation paid a working visit to Mauritania's Independent Port of Nouakchott, also known as the "Port of Friendship". The visit was part of a series of activities scheduled for the joint Mauritanian-Algerian customs committee meeting, which began on Tuesday in Nouakchott. Bekhous and his delegation were received by Mauritanian Customs Director-General, Inspector General Khalid Ould Saleck, and other senior officials.
During the visit to the Independent Port of Nouakchott, the Algerian delegation was briefed on the port's operations and its role in supporting the national economy. The port's director, Lemrabet Ould Benamehi, presented a detailed overview of the port's activities, followed by a guided tour of the container terminal and crane facilities. The Algerian delegation was informed about the port's capacity, ship monitoring procedures, and cargo handling processes, as well as measures in place to ensure maritime safety and environmental protection.
The Algerian delegation also learned about the port's fire prevention and fighting measures, as well as the security protocols in place to protect people and property. The visit provided an opportunity for the two sides to exchange information and expertise on customs procedures and port management. The Algerian delegation was impressed by the port's facilities and operations, which are critical to Mauritania's economic development.
The second leg of the visit took the Algerian delegation to the National Land Control Directorate, which falls under the Mauritanian Customs Administration. The delegation was briefed on the directorate's role and functions, as well as its logistical and IT capabilities. The Mauritanian officials explained the directorate's monitoring systems, which track the movement of fuel and goods, and its efforts to enhance customs control and surveillance.
The Algerian delegation was also informed about the role of the monitoring system in reinforcing customs control, tracking shipments, and verifying customs declarations and documents. This, they were told, contributes to improving customs performance and enhancing the efficiency of control and monitoring mechanisms. The visit provided a platform for the two sides to discuss ways to strengthen their cooperation in the area of customs administration.
The visit by the Algerian Customs Director-General and his delegation is seen as a significant step in strengthening cooperation between Mauritania and Algeria in the area of customs administration. The two sides are expected to build on the momentum generated by the visit to enhance their collaboration and share best practices in customs procedures and port management.
The joint Mauritanian-Algerian customs committee meeting, which began on Tuesday, is expected to conclude with a number of agreements and recommendations aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation in the area of customs administration. The meeting will also provide a platform for the two sides to discuss regional and international issues related to customs administration and trade facilitation.
Key points
- Strengthening cooperation between Mauritania and Algeria in customs administration.
