Dili: The Angolan ambassador to East Timor, José Andrade de Lemos, emphasized the importance of international solidarity between Angola, Cuba, and East Timor during a seminar at the National University of East Timor (UNTL). The seminar, titled 'Economy, Solidarity and Cooperatives,' was held in the auditorium of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences. According to Angola Press News Agency, the event featured notable figures from the diplomatic and academic communities, including ambassadors from the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic and Cuba, as well as Timorese diplomat Roque Rodrigues and university professors. In his presentation, José Andrade de Lemos underscored that solidarity is a fundamental principle in international relations, enabling nations to collectively address issues such as poverty, inequality, conflict, pandemics, and climate change. The ambassador highlighted the political and diplomatic connections formed between Angola and Timor-Leste prior to their respective independences-Angola in November 1975 and Timor-Leste later. These relations are rooted in a shared history as former Portuguese colonies and a mutual commitment to the self-determination of peoples, along with universal values such as social justice, human dignity, and peace. José Andrade de Lemos also pointed out the historical ties between Angola and Cuba, particularly Cuba's support during Angola's National Liberation Struggle and Civil War. During these times, Cuba provided assistance through doctors, teachers, and military personnel. The General Cooperation Agreement between Angola and Cuba facilitated the training of thousands of Angolans in Cuba in various fields, including health, agriculture, education, social communication, sports, defense, and culture. The diplomat praised the Association of Former Angolan Students in Cuba, known as Caimaneros, as a testament to the enduring friendship between Angola and Cuba and the human aspect of their bilateral relations. He concluded that the international solidarity between An gola, Cuba, and East Timor carries historical, humanistic, and strategic significance, extending beyond mere technical or diplomatic cooperation to become a powerful symbol of mutual support. The seminar is part of a series of lectures featuring interactive sessions aimed at enhancing the Timorese academic community's understanding of international cooperation. The series will continue at other universities, with the Angolan ambassador engaging in discussions on international solidarity and Angola's contributions to cooperation efforts, particularly within Africa.