Atlântico Sul Strengthens Ties in Cape Verde

Bassyonni

ago 1 hour

Atlântico Sul Strengthens Ties in Cape Verde

The countries of the Southern Atlantic are set to strengthen their maritime security cooperation. This initiative was highlighted during a recent technical dialogue meeting held in Praia, Cape Verde, which commenced on Thursday. The Minister of Defense, Janine Lélis, announced plans for a ministerial meeting scheduled for 2026 in Brazil.

Strengthening Maritime Security Cooperation

The two-day forum brings together national and international experts, government officials, and representatives from multilateral organizations. The objective is to generate contributions for a forthcoming declaration in Rio de Janeiro and an action plan to be adopted at the ninth ministerial meeting in 2026.

Key Goals and Areas of Focus

The cooperation prioritizes:

Maritime surveillance
Interoperability
Coordinated responses to threats in the Southern Atlantic
Public security
Combating maritime crime, including illegal fishing, drug trafficking, and human smuggling

Additionally, the forum aims to enhance oceanographic research and technical knowledge among Zopacas member countries. This includes mapping regional capabilities and needs, which will facilitate the mobilization of support and resources for joint projects.

The Role of Zopacas

Janine Lélis emphasized the importance of Zopacas as a crucial platform for boosting cooperative security, mutual trust, and strategic stability in the Southern Atlantic. She noted the pressing need to consolidate national and joint capabilities in response to emerging transnational threats.

According to Lélis, knowledge sharing, mutual learning, and institutional strengthening are vital for enhancing capacities and promoting sustainable development. This collaborative effort ensures that no country is left behind in addressing shared challenges.

Brazil’s Commitment to the Southern Atlantic

Carlos Márcio Cozendey, Brazil’s Secretary of State for Multilateral Affairs, reaffirmed the country’s strategic commitment to the Southern Atlantic. He highlighted the importance of increasing cooperation density within the region.

He stated, “The Southern Atlantic connects us to Africa, our South American neighbors, and Antarctica. It is a rich biodiversity environment that we must protect collectively.” Cozendey further emphasized the Southern Atlantic as a corridor for commercial, cultural, and scientific exchange, fostering mutual understanding and opportunities.