RABAT, Morocco — Cooperation for the development of trade in Africa was at the heart of the discussions on Tuesday during a meeting between Mrs. Lilia Hachem Naas, Director of the ECA Office in North Africa and Hani Sonbol, CEO of the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC).

Several themes were considered for the establishment of joint cooperation programs, in particular the development of trade and in particular the African Free Trade Area (AFLT), the improvement of logistical infrastructures and regional integration, the reinforcement of investment and the improvement of access to financing for structuring projects, the development of the private sector as well as the creation of jobs benefiting young people. New consultations are planned in the near future.

Established in 1958 by the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations (ECOSOC), the Economic Commission for Africa is one of the five regional commissions of the United Nations. ECA's mandate is to support the economic and social development of its member states, promote regional integration and promote international cooperation for Africa's development. Its North Africa Office's mission is to support the development of seven countries (Algeria, Egypt, Libya, Morocco, Mauritania, Tunisia and Sudan) by helping them formulate and implement policies and programs that can contribute to their transformation, economic and social development. — SG