Resolution No. 23/24 approving, for ratification, the Mining Sector Protocol between the Republic of Angola and the SADC.

This Resolution approves, for ratification, the Mining Sector Protocol between the Republic of Angola and the SADC. The Government of the Republic of Angola and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), within the framework of cooperation relations based on the principles of equality, sovereignty and territorial integrity between member states, on 8 April 1997 signed a Mining Sector Protocol. This SADC Protocol is an instrument that will enable the exchange of technical and scientific information, the development of concrete projects in the field of mining resources, the creation of business opportunities and support for intervention and dynamization of business cooperation, with a view to improving the standard of living of the SADC population. Member States agree to promote policies that will encourage and support small-scale activities in the mining sector. They will facilitate the development of small-scale mining activities through the provision of technical extension services, the creation of marketing conditions, including exhibitions, and the establishment of mineral product exchanges. They will also encourage training, institutional and financial support for the small-scale mining sector in the region. Member States shall promote sustainable development by ensuring a balance between mining development and environmental protection, encourage a regional approach in the environmental impact assessment process, particularly in relation to common systems and transboundary environmental effects.