Cape Verde & GLA: Forging a Path to Enhanced Trade, Cooperation, & Development

At the China-Africa Cooperation Forum held in Beijing on 6th September 2024, Cape Verde’s Prime Minister Mr. José Ulisses Correia e Silva met with Ms. Grace Sun, President of the GLA Global Logistics Alliance. The meeting was accompanied by notable figures such as Cape Verde’s Ambassador to China, Mr. Tânia Romualdo, Cape Verde's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Cooperation, and Regional Integration, Mr. Rui Alberto de Figueiredo Soares, and Zambia's Minister of Health, Ms. Filomena Mendes Gonçalves, underscoring the dynamic potential of China-Africa collaboration.

The discussions between Prime Minister José Ulisses Correia e Silva and Ms. Grace Sun centered on enhancing the partnership between China and Cape Verde. They focused on key areas such as logistics cooperation, bilateral trade, and cultural exchange. Prime Minister José Ulisses Correia e Silva highlighted the importance of cultural exchange in strengthening ties between Cape Verde and China, stating, “Cultural exchange is the bridge that fosters mutual understanding and friendship between our nations.” He noted that trade between Cape Verde and China has seen steady growth, positioning China as a vital trade partner for Cape Verde. He expressed a shared vision to invigorate relations through expanded cooperation in culture, education, and tourism.

Ms. Grace Sun, representing the GLA Global Logistics Alliance, emphasized Cape Verde’s strategic position as a gateway for African trade and logistics. She stated, “Cape Verde holds a unique position as a gateway for African trade and logistics, and our collaboration can set the stage for significant economic growth and development.” 

Further, GLA President highlighted GLA’s network of over 7,000 members worldwide, with a strong presence in Africa, emphasizing its commitment to fostering a robust and trustworthy logistics ecosystem. “GLA is dedicated to building a connected global logistics network,” she noted, underscoring their role in supporting economic growth and development.

To support this vision, GLA recently hosted the Africa Regional Forum 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, which brought together over 200 business leaders from more than 50 countries. The forum served as a platform for connecting Africa with a global logistics ecosystem, bridging gaps, and exploring opportunities for innovation and growth. This event demonstrated GLA’s commitment to enhancing logistics infrastructure across Africa and integrating it into the global market.

Reflecting on the meeting, Ms. Grace Sun remarked, “This dialogue is not just a step forward for Cape Verde and China; it’s a pivotal moment for all of Africa. By deepening our cooperation in logistics, infrastructure, and sustainable development, we are writing a new chapter of effective collaboration on the international stage.” 

Ms. Grace Sun concluded by reaffirming GLA's dedication to fostering a global network that empowers logistics enterprises through collaboration and efficient supply chain systems. She emphasized, “Our goal is to craft a better, more connected world, one that reflects the spirit of shared growth and prosperity.” The meeting in Beijing solidified a strong foundation for future collaboration and regional prosperity, underpinned by the shared goals of both Cape Verde and China.

As both nations look to the future, they are confident that through sustained efforts in logistics, infrastructure, and sustainable development, they can achieve a harmonious and prosperous future. The collaborative spirit showcased at the China-Africa Cooperation Forum is a powerful reminder of the potential that lies in international partnerships.