Luanda: The Minister of Foreign Affairs, T©te Ant³nio, extended an invitation to Japan's public and private sectors to diversify their investments in Angola, specifically targeting areas beyond the traditional energy sector. This appeal was made during the opening of official talks between Angola and Japan, where Ant³nio highlighted sectors such as agro-industry, the blue economy, renewable energies, and digitalization as promising avenues for Japanese businesses.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Angola presents opportunities in these sectors that could bolster Japanese investments, which are already established in fields like demining. The minister emphasized that Angola is undergoing a reform program aimed at improving the business climate and promoting economic diversification, identifying Japan as a crucial partner in this transformative process.
Ant³nio acknowledged Japan's ongoing support in demining, which he deemed vital for human security and agricultural development. He also praised Japanese involvement in the refurbishment of the Port of Namibe, a significant component of the Lobito Corridor and regional logistics, alongside the Japan International Cooperation Agency's assistance in personnel training.
The Foreign Affairs Minister stressed Japan's role as a long-standing ally, whose technological prowess and experience significantly contribute to Angola's reconstruction and economic growth. He recalled that since the inception of diplomatic relations on September 9, 1976, both nations have fostered a cooperative relationship grounded in solidarity and mutual respect.
Ant³nio remarked on the dynamism of bilateral relations, underscored by President Joo Louren§o's visit to Japan in 2023, which he described as pivotal in fortifying cooperation. On a multilateral level, he noted that Angola and Japan share common principles, including the advocacy for peace, conflict resolution through peaceful means, and the necessity for reform in international institutions.
Expressing gratitude for Japan's involvement in the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD), Ant³nio anticipated that the discussions with the Japanese delegation, led by Foreign Affairs Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, would further enhance the bonds of friendship and collaboration.
Cooperation between Angola and Japan dates back to September 9, 1976, with significant milestones such as the establishment of the Angolan Embassy in Japan in 2000, the opening of an honorary consulate in Nagoya in 2021, and the founding of the Japanese Embassy in Angola in 2005. Bilateral cooperation, facilitated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency, encompasses technical programs and projects in sectors like health, vocational training, agriculture, telecommunications, and energy.