Luanda: The visit of US President Joe Biden to Angola from December 2 to 4 is set to enhance cooperation between the two nations, marking a significant milestone in their diplomatic relations over the past three decades. This visit, the first by a sitting US President to the country, is considered a diplomatic success for Angolan President João Lourenço, who has prioritized closer ties with the US since his tenure began in 2017.
According to Angola Press News Agency, President Lourenço’s strategy was notably highlighted by his visit to the White House in December 2023, where he and President Biden discussed various projects underway in Angola. During this meeting, Biden emphasized the growing importance of the partnership between the two countries. The Oval Office meeting underscored the commitment to advancing shared interests and objectives, particularly in economic development and infrastructure.
President Biden’s upcoming visit will focus on significant projects such as the Lobito Corridor, a vital infr
astructure initiative involving the Port of Lobito and the Benguela Railway. This project, with over a billion US dollars in funding, represents the largest US rail investment in Africa and aims to bolster infrastructure, enhance food export capabilities, and promote regional stability and growth. The Lobito Corridor is expected to enhance food and energy security for Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Zambia, while also creating jobs across these nations.
A forum on food security, with participation from the Presidents of Angola, the DRC, Zambia, and Tanzania, will be a focal point of Biden’s visit. This initiative highlights the critical role of the Lobito Corridor in regional economic diversification and development. The forum and related discussions will explore opportunities in agribusiness, the food industry, and raw material processing, particularly minerals essential for the global automotive sector.
In addition to infrastructure, Biden’s visit will address issues of prosperity, cli
mate change, and food security, which are central to US-Angola relations. These discussions will take place at the Carrinhos Group Industrial Complex, demonstrating the multifaceted nature of the bilateral partnership. Furthermore, the visit will spotlight electrification projects in Angola, including the installation of a photovoltaic solar power plant by US company Sun Africa, which is the largest of its kind in the country.
Peace and security in Africa, especially in the Great Lakes Region, will also be on the agenda. The US values Angola’s mediating role in regional conflicts, particularly between the DRC and Rwanda, and views Angola as a strategic ally. This visit is seen as a testament to the trust and mutual interests shared between the two nations.
The partnership between the US and Angola is expected to foster economic prosperity, regional security, and energy security in Africa. The 17th US-Africa Business Summit, scheduled to be held in Luanda in 2025, is another testament to Angola’s growing rol
e in the African economy. This summit will coincide with Angola’s 50th Independence anniversary and its presidency of the African Union, highlighting the country’s progress and potential.
Despite political changes in the US, with Donald Trump’s recent election victory, President Lourenço remains optimistic about the continuity of strong US-Angola relations. His commitment to strengthening this partnership has been acknowledged by international media, with extensive coverage expected for Biden’s visit.