Angolan President João Lourenço spoke with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on the phone, in the discussion, President Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to President Lourenço for Angola’s steadfast support of Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity amidst ongoing challenges. “Africa’s unity and support are vital to restoring a just and lasting peace,” Zelenskyy emphasized, highlighting the importance of the continent’s role in global peace efforts. This sentiment aligns with Africa’s broader aspirations for fostering stability and cooperation on the international stage.
The Ukrainian leader outlined his country’s keen interest in developing bilateral relations with Angola across several strategic sectors. Food security emerged as a focal point, with discussions on establishing grain hubs to enhance the accessibility and affordability of essential agricultural commodities. Ukraine, known as a major global grain supplier, sees Angola as a critical partner in mitigating food insecurity, a challenge that continues to affect millions across Africa.
Beyond agriculture, the leaders explored opportunities in logistics and humanitarian demining. These initiatives are expected to leverage Ukraine’s expertise and technological advancements to address Angola’s developmental priorities. Humanitarian demining, in particular, stands out as a pressing concern, with Angola’s history of landmine contamination posing risks to both communities and economic growth. Zelenskyy’s commitment to sharing knowledge and resources underscores the potential for mutually beneficial cooperation in this domain.
To further cement these ties, President Zelenskyy announced plans to appoint Ukraine’s first Ambassador to Angola. This move signifies Ukraine’s intent to deepen its diplomatic presence and foster sustained dialogue with Angola. The establishment of an ambassadorial office is expected to facilitate closer collaboration, not only in the areas discussed but also in broader cultural and political engagements.
In response, President Lourenço extended his appreciation for Ukraine’s outreach and expressed readiness to enhance bilateral relations. He accepted an invitation from President Zelenskyy to visit Ukraine, a gesture that symbolizes Angola’s commitment to dialogue and partnership. The visit, expected to take place in the near future, will provide an opportunity for both leaders to build on their discussions and chart a concrete roadmap for cooperation.
Teams from both nations have been tasked with preparing for President Lourenço’s visit. This preparatory work is anticipated to include detailed negotiations on specific projects and agreements, reflecting the shared determination to turn aspirations into actionable outcomes.
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