MOU Signed between FIO and IRHOB

A delegation from the FIO, led by Director General Prof. Li Tiegang, visited Benin from October 22 to 23 to strengthen cooperation in marine science and technology between China and West Africa.

The delegation visited the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, Benin Maritime Prefecture, Benin Fisheries and Oceanological Research Institute (IRHOB), and other relevant departments. Discussions were held on areas such as joint marine observation, data sharing, marine disaster response, and the blue economy, leading to the establishment of cooperative intentions.

On October 23, FIO and IRHOB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). At the signing ceremony, Director General LI Tiegang stated that the signing of this MoU is the result of sustained exchanges and cooperation since 2022, marking a new level in marine science and technology collaboration between the two sides. In the future, FIO is willing to work hand in hand with its Beninese partners to build a model platform for international cooperation in West Africa. Professor Zacharie Sohou, Director of IRHOB and Vice-Chair of the IOC Sub-Commission for Africa and the Adjacent Island States (IOCAFRICA), expressed gratitude for the active contributions made by FIO in advancing marine science and technology in the African region and pledged full support to advance the implementation of cooperative projects between the two sides.

The signing of this MoU and the visit to Benin represent significant achievements in FIO’s efforts in recent years to promote Sino-African marine science and technology collaboration. Building on the long-term and practical cooperative mechanism established between both sides, future efforts will focus on advancing the construction of marine observation systems, developing marine forecasting products, and fostering talent cultivation and capacity building. These initiatives will provide Benin and other West African nations with technical support for marine climate monitoring, disaster prevention, and mitigation, thereby contributing Chinese wisdom and solutions to promoting regional ecological security and economic development.

MoU signing between FIO and IRHOB

Visit to IRHOB

Meeting with the Maritime Prefect of Benin