Persistent tensions between Guinea and Guinea-Bissau over their land and maritime borders have pushed both countries to react. A joint technical commission was thus set up in order to clarify and delimit these common borders. Experts from the two nations met in Bissau with the aim of establishing joint management of the border, both structurally, organizationally and operationally.
The land border between the two countries stretches 324 kilometers, but for communities living along this divide, the demarcation is blurred. It is therefore essential to put in place clear and precise measures to prevent any intercommunity conflict.
However, it is the delimitation of the common maritime space that represents a real challenge. This area is rich in fishery resources, but has never been the subject of a clear delimitation and an exchange agreement. This has led to recurring disputes, illustrated by the arrest of Guinean fishermen by the Guinea-Bissau coast guard last January. In addition, members of the Guinean coast guard are also held in captivity by the Guinea-Bissau authorities, and are awaiting trial.
This worrying situation was strongly denounced by Me Bader Kaba, national co-director of legislation at the Guinean Ministry of Justice, who insists on the need to preserve the physical and moral integrity of all the individuals involved. It is essential to find lasting solutions to this problem which has persisted for several decades.
The joint technical commission set up by the two countries will therefore actively work to resolve these tensions, by increasing meetings and exchanges in order to achieve a clear delimitation and joint management of these common borders. The objective is to prevent conflicts and promote peaceful cooperation between Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.
This initiative is definitely a step forward towards a peaceful resolution of border disputes between the two countries. Hopefully, the ongoing discussions will result in a mutually beneficial agreement, thereby promoting regional stability and development.