The Republic of Benin and the Maritime Organisation of West and Central Africa (MOWCA) are jointly organising an International Symposium on Maritime Policy.

The symposium is scheduled for Cotonou ,the capital of Benin, between September 28 to October 2.

The Symposium will be held at the levels of Experts (28 – 30 September) and of Ministers (1 – 2 October).

It will be recalled that in 1992 and 1997 respectively, MOWCA, in collaboration with the World Bank and the Republic of Benin organized two Round Tables (Cotonou I and Cotonou II) on Maritime Policy in West and Central Africa. Those two Round Tables shaped the direction of maritime policy in the countries of the sub-region leading to reforms of the demand and supply structures.

The forthcoming symposium is similar to the two Cotonou Round Tables and will examine current maritime policies of the member States within the context of the current global economic crises and make relevant recommendations aimed at consolidating the maritime industry of the sub-region.

Participants expected at the Symposium include: Member States of MOWCA, MOWCA’s Specialised Organs / Maritime Academies / University; Shippers; Ports; Shipping Lines; Maritime Administrations; International Organisation and Development Partners.

World renowned maritime experts are expected to make presentations at the Symposium.