Shanghai: Angola and China are set to strengthen their bilateral cooperation during the 8th International Taihu Culture Conference, as Angolan Vice-President Esperança da Costa embarks on a three-day visit to China. The visit aims to deepen cultural, environmental, economic, and business relationships between the two nations.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the trip follows recent discussions in Luanda between Esperança da Costa and Chinese Ambassador to Angola, Zhang Bin, who emphasized the strategic significance and high level of cooperation between the countries. Ambassador Zhang reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Angola’s development and expressed interest in expanding cooperation into new areas such as agriculture, industry, and mineral processing.
The Vice-President’s visit provides an opportunity for Angola and China to evaluate the effectiveness of current agreements and explore new investment areas, particularly involving the private sector. A key highlight of the visit will be Ango
la’s participation in the Taihu International Culture Conference, an event that fosters intercultural dialogue and promotes the development of human civilization.
The World Taihu Culture Forum, a Chinese non-governmental organization dedicated to culture, organizes the conference in partnership with institutions like China Daily. The conference brings together experts, government officials, and various stakeholders to discuss global cultural trends.
Esperança da Costa’s visit is anticipated to attract new Chinese investors to Angola, leveraging the country’s improved business environment to diversify investments. The mission aims to establish platforms for mutual understanding, benefiting both nations and diversifying existing cooperation.
Angola and China have been strategic partners since 2000, with significant cooperation in political, diplomatic, and business domains. Angola is China’s largest trading partner in Africa, with trade volumes reaching USD 24.8 billion in 2010. As of 2022, trade between the
two countries exceeded USD 22 billion, marking a significant increase from previous years.
China has been instrumental in Angola’s development, constructing infrastructure such as railways, roads, social housing units, schools, and hospitals. These projects include the Caculo Cabaça Dam and the new Luanda International Airport, among others. China has also provided extensive training and scholarships to Angolans, enhancing skills across various sectors.
The Vice-President’s visit is expected to further consolidate the robust cooperation between Angola and China, building on the existing legal framework that governs their economic and social interactions.