Luanda: Relations between Angola and Portugal are historically shaped by structural, economic, strategic, and geopolitical factors that tend to remain relatively stable, 'regardless of the party alternation in power in Lisbon.' This opinion was expressed by Angolan political analyst Wilton Micolo, when commenting on the impact, in terms of cooperation, of the results of the recent presidential election in Portugal, won by the former Secretary-General of the Socialist Party (PS), Antonio Jose Seguro, defeating, in the second round, the president of Chega, Andre Ventura.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the victory of the socialist candidate does not, in itself, imply an automatic strengthening of relations between Angola and Portugal, emphasizing the need to distinguish between party orientation and the structural interests of the State. The international relations expert admitted, however, that socialist-oriented governments tend to favor a more multilateral, cooperative, and institutional diplomacy, which could create a more favorable political environment for strengthening political dialogue, technical cooperation, and cultural relations between the two states.

Wilton Micolo points to a possible improvement of diplomatic relations rather than a substantial change of course, stressing that the ties between Angola and Portugal remain essentially historical and structural, regardless of political leadership. In his view, this spirit also guided the immediate congratulations of the Angolan Head of State, Joo Louren§o, to Antonio Jose Seguro, elected with about twice as many votes as his right-wing opponent.

The political dialogue between Angola and Portugal is structured around a Joint Intergovernmental Commission created in 2017, which aims to promote the development of bilateral relations, monitor bilateral instruments, and conduct consultations on issues of common interest, both bilaterally and multilaterally.