Maputo, 3 Jul (AIM) – The Mozambican defense minister, Cristóvão Chume, and his Malawian counterpart, Monica Chang’anamuno, have signed an agreement which enables the armed forces of both counties to carry out combined patrols and military exercises.
According to a statement, the agreement was signed in Maputo, during the 16th Session of the Mozambique-Malawi Permanent Joint Commission on Defence and Security (CCPDS), which approved an integrated plan aimed at strengthening defence and security in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region and combatting cross-border crime.
Both countries also agreed to step up joint operations against trafficking in human beings, drugs, fuel and medicines.
“The agreement also provides for the systematic sharing of information on border security, the fight against illegal mining, the smuggling of goods and the illicit trade in forestry and wildlife resources. These instruments will ensure greater efficiency in the movement of citizens in border areas, in the fight against organized crime and in the development of common initiatives in defence and security”, reads the note.
The document declared that “The consensus must be translated into results on the ground to protect borders and safeguard populations.”
Last June, Mozambique and Malawi inaugurated a one-stop border post at Dedza (on the Malawian side) and Calomue (in Mozambique), which is aimed at allowing the two countries to hold joint immigration, customs and health procedures. It is intended to reduce logistical costs and facilitate the flow of people and goods.
(AIM)
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