Luanda: The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ado de Almeida, met with the Mauritanian ambassador to Angola, Mohamed Ebade, to explore avenues for strengthening parliamentary ties between Angola and Mauritania. The discussions focused on utilizing parliamentary diplomacy as a vital tool to enhance the political and institutional dialogue between the two nations.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the diplomat emphasized the significance of reinforcing inter-African relations across multiple sectors amidst the challenges of the current global context. He highlighted the strategic importance of cooperation among African countries.
Mohamed Ebade expressed gratitude for the warm reception and support the Mauritanian community has received in Angola. He extended his thanks to the President of the National Assembly and, through him, to President Joo Louren§o and the Angolan people for their hospitality.
The diplomat noted that the Mauritanian Head of State appreciates the support offered to the Mauritanian community in Angola, acknowledging the assistance provided by Angolan authorities, including the president. This support has notably contributed to the community's well-being and active participation in Angola's economic development.
Since 1987, Angola and Mauritania have enjoyed robust political and diplomatic relations, focusing on South-South cooperation, regional stability, and development. Both countries have fortified ties in areas such as fishing, mining, energy, gas, and security, sharing a common interest in continental integration.
In related developments, the parliament Speaker also engaged with the French ambassador to Angola, Sophie Aubert, to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation and parliamentary relations. The meeting took place in the context of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Angola and France. The French diplomat remarked on the importance of parliamentary friendship groups, highlighting the recent establishment of the Angola-France Friendship Group in the French National Assembly.
Angola and France's relations are regarded as a strategic partnership, strengthened through high-level dialogues between Presidents Joo Louren§o and Emmanuel Macron since 2017.
The Angolan parliament leader also met with Shannon Nagy, the Charg© d'Affaires of the United States of America for Angola and So Tom© and Prncipe, although no statements were made to the press following this meeting.