The President of the ECOWAS Commission, Mr. Kadré Désiré Ouédraogo and his counterpart Mr. Soumaré Cheikhe Hadjibou from UEMOA Commission met in Abuja November 24, 2015 to review the implementation of the regional integration strategies.
During this meeting, the Heads of ECOWAS and UEMOA Institutions of have highlighted the need to diversify economies and strengthen the integration process to further increase the level of the economic growth. They also stressed the need for the two Commissions to work in harmony to achieve a coordinated and coherent convergence of programs and joint projects, as requested by the Heads of State and Government.
Concerning the implementation of ECOWAS CET, including the positive impact on customs revenue is already noticeable in a number of Member States, the Heads of Institution requested that arrangements be made for its effective implementation in all States in 2016.
With regard to the Economic Partnership Agreement and Development Program (PAPED) with the European Union, the Presidents have agreed to the involvement of ADB in the process. However, they asked to initiate actions so as to strengthen the capacities of BOAD and EBID.
Concerning the Regional Indicative Programme (RIP 11th EDF), the two Presidents focused on defending the interests and priorities of the region. They emphasized compliance with the terms of the signed agreement and the strict observance of the commitments made by the European side.
The President of the ECOWAS Commission informed the meeting the commemoration of the fortieth anniversary of ECOWAS on December 17, 2015. He also informed the meeting the launch, on this occasion of the biometric identity card which will take effect from the first of January 2016. This card will replace the residence permit. Thus, any citizen of the Community could move, settle and work in any member state of his choice.