DPFZA Chairman receives H.E Mr. Ignazio Cassis, the Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland

On March 21, the DPFZA Chairman was honored to receive at the SGTD, His Excellency Mr. Ignazio Cassis, the Head of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, Her Excellency, Mme Kadra Ahmed Hassan, Ambassador to Switzerland and Permanent Representative to the United Nations.

At the outset of the visit, His Excellency Mr. Ignazio Cassis and his delegation were provided with a comprehensive overview of the operations and achievements of SGTD, the first stop on their itinerary.

SGTD, a strategic hub within Djibouti's maritime infrastructure, serves as a vital gateway for international trade and commerce. The delegation was briefed on SGTD's cutting-edge facilities, advanced technology systems, and efficient logistics operations, highlighting its pivotal role in facilitating global trade flows.

Following their insightful visit to SGTD, the delegation proceeded to the Djibouti International Free Trade Zone (DIFTZ). DIFTZ, a flagship initiative of DPFZA, offers a conducive business environment and a range of incentives to attract investment and foster economic growth. The delegation had the opportunity to learn about the ambitious initiatives underway at DPFZA, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, promoting trade facilitation, and stimulating economic development.

As such, discussions focused on the "sea-air cargo" model, which offers customers the opportunity to achieve substantial cost savings and to connect landlocked countries. Within the free trade zone, goods can be repackaged and shipped by air, serving 21 countries and 24 cities in Africa.

Secondly, the Transafrican railway project was presented as an alternative route to the Red Sea and Bab el Mandeb, ensuring the smooth flow of international trade. This ambitious initiative aims to connect the port of Dakar in West Africa to the port of Djibouti in East Africa, further enhancing regional connectivity and trade facilitation.

It is noteworthy that the Swiss-based Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), which holds the leading position among global maritime shipping line companies is also the primary customer of Djibouti Ports.

His Excellency Mr. Ignazio Cassis and his delegation expressed their appreciation for the warm hospitality extended to them by the Chairman of DPFZA.

The visit served as a valuable platform for exchanging ideas and further exploring partnership opportunities.