Post by : Maya Rahman

During an official visit to Luanda, Sheikh Shakhboot bin Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State, met with João Manuel Lourenço, the President of Angola. This meeting emphasized the shared commitment to enhance cooperation and bolster relations in various critical areas of mutual interest. It underscored the UAE’s dedication to engaging with African nations, particularly Angola, which stands out as a crucial partner in the region.

Sheikh Shakhboot extended warm greetings from President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, along with messages from His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The leadership of the UAE conveyed their best wishes for the advancement and prosperity of Angola’s government and its citizens.

In reciprocation, President Lourenço sent his regards to the UAE leadership and expressed gratitude for the strong bilateral relations. He extended his hopes for further UAE growth and stability. This exchange reflected the mutual respect and friendship shared between the two countries.

President Lourenço welcomed Sheikh Shakhboot, valuing the UAE’s ongoing initiatives with Angola. The discussions evolved productively, covering strategies to enhance bilateral relations in investment, trade, energy, development cooperation, and cultural interchange. The two leaders recognized the diverse opportunities available for partnership that could benefit their nations.

Sheikh Shakhboot reiterated the UAE’s commitment to collaborate closely with Angola, particularly in areas that support economic diversification and sustainable progress. He emphasized that fostering balanced, mutually advantageous relationships with African nations is vital, with Angola being a significant part of this vision.

In addition to bilateral matters, regional developments affecting Africa were also on the agenda. The ongoing situation in Sudan became a focal point of their discussions. Sheikh Shakhboot acknowledged Angola’s substantial role in fostering peace and stability in Africa during its presidency of the African Union, highlighting its commitment to dialogue and diplomatic resolutions of conflicts.

Both leaders underscored the need for collaborative efforts to promote peace, security, and development both in Africa and globally. They agreed on the paramount importance of humanitarian support and regional cooperation to navigate prevailing challenges.

Sheikh Shakhboot and President Lourenço also highlighted the urgent need to safeguard civilians and humanitarian workers in conflict areas, jointly condemning all acts against them. They called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan and underscored the critical need for safe, unhindered humanitarian aid delivery. Emphasizing accountability for violations against civilians, both nations reaffirmed their conviction that enduring peace hinges on the respect for human rights and the fulfillment of humanitarian needs.

The meeting culminated in a recommitment to further enhancing UAE-Angola ties. Both parties agreed to sustain open channels of communication and explore new avenues of collaboration in the future. This visit embodies the UAE’s long-term vision of forging strong, cooperative relations with African countries and promoting peace, stability, and prosperity throughout the continent.

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