AGOA CONFERENCE IN NOUAKCHOTT

Nouakchott-March 16 (Next Gen Press)

The work of a conference on American law, growth and opportunities in Africa (AGOA) began on Sunday in the Mauritanian capital Nouakchott in the presence of participants from the public and private sector.The Conference aims to develop trade and encourage investment among African countries and the USA by giving eligible countries exceptional access to the American market with a special focus on trade and not aid.

"Mauritania is now eligible for ... growth and investment opportunities. It has significant potential to develop partnership relations with businessmen American to intensify investment and facilitate the access of its products to American market" said Mr. Sid'ahmed Ould Raiss, the Minister of Trade and Industry, in his remarks at the official opening of the AGOA Conference

"The government, confident in the importance of the results which will lead the workshop, is determined to take all necessary measures to ensure the support and facilitation of the proposed actions with the aim to strengthen and develop relations of economic and trade partnership to be in the service of the mutual interests of both countries.", added the Minister.

The Mauritanian Minister of Trade explained that today's conference is in line with the concerns of the government and it's attempt to develop the national economy by encouraging foreign investment and making the private sector a key driver of economic growth, benefiting from the global economy and integrating international trade in order to expand production capacities, diversify the economic base, effectively combat poverty and improve the living conditions of citizens. The American government, represented by the US ambassador to Mauritania Mr. Mark M. Boulware expressed similar wishes to enhance economic and business relations with Mauritania and Africa under the AGOA .

"The United States is committed to promote trade with Africa not only to increase the volume of its exports to this continent but also to improve the level of exports from Africa to the United States", said the Ambassador.

"The AGOA law will facilitate the introduction of products from eligible countries in the American market without paying customs duties" explained the American diplomat. he conference aim is to present AGOA and provide the necessary nformation available to all stakeholders in the public and private ectors and civil society organizations into a system applied according to the laws f AGOA to take full advantage of benefits it grants to Mauritania.

The opening ceremony of the AGOA Conference was held in the presence of several oncerned ministries, a high delegation in charge of investment romotion and representatives of key economic operators in the country.

The conference will last two days and will cover the main aspects of the Business Climate in Mauritania, Obstacles to Exports and AGOA, and Key Opportunities for Mauritania to Develop Exports to the United States.The problematic of advancing trade between Mauritania and United States will be debated by officials, experts, economic operators and media during the conference in order to set new agenda for business cooperation and long term partnership.

More information on the legal background of AGOA is available online:
http://www.whitehouse.gov/news/releases/2007/06/20070628-18.html