Luanda: Former Portuguese Defense Minister Jose Azaredo Lopes announced on Thursday that President Joo Louren§o's active participation in international forums has significantly enhanced Angola's global reputation and credibility.

According to Angola Press News Agency, Azaredo Lopes made these remarks at the International Peace Conference, an event organized by the Military House of the President of the Republic to commemorate the 24th anniversary of Peace and National Reconciliation in Angola. The former minister emphasized that President Louren§o's involvement in the African Union and various multilateral meetings is a testament to Angola's commitment to upholding both national and international laws, as well as the principles that govern state relations.

Azaredo highlighted that Angola's diplomatic engagements portray the nation as a staunch defender of fundamental international principles, thereby fortifying its diplomatic presence on the global stage. "This transforms the State into a more reliable and respectable entity," he stated, underscoring the importance of adhering to international behavioral norms despite the global focus on power.

Furthermore, Azaredo noted that Angola's diplomatic approach not only consolidates the power and legitimacy of the Angolan State but also elevates its international status and bolsters the confidence of its external partners.

The conference, themed "For the Economic Development and Well-being of Angolans, Hand in Hand," includes discussions on "International Law in Times of Permanent War," "Strategic Analysis and Decision Support," and "Hybrid Wars in the 21st Century." The event marks the anniversary of the end of Angola's 27-year civil war, which concluded on April 4, 2002, with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between the Government and UNITA, fostering the country's unity, stability, and development.