Geneva: The European Union (EU) Special Representative for the Great Lakes Region, Johan Borgstam, on Friday acknowledged Angola's efforts in promoting peace, stability, and sustainable development in this part of Africa. Speaking to the press at the end of an audience granted by President Joo Louren§o, the European diplomat thanked the Head of State and the Angolan government for their commitment to the pursuit of stability and peace in the Great Lakes Region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the EU official highlighted the central role that Angola has played in regional processes of political coordination and security. He noted the significance of the meeting of the Lobito Corridor Coordination Committee held in Luanda, considering the project an important milestone for regional development. The Swedish diplomat emphasized that the Lobito Corridor represents a concrete example of initiatives that promote economic growth, peace, stability, and security, directly impacting the region's sustainable development.
Johan Borgstam praised President Joo Louren§o's performance as chairperson of the African Union (AU). He expressed appreciation for the opportunity to exchange ideas with the Angolan Head of State, which enhanced his understanding of Angola's engagement and commitment to regional issues and efforts at integration and peacemaking on the African continent.
The role of the Special Representative of the European Union for the Great Lakes Region is to support the EU's foreign policy implementation in one of Africa's most strategic regions. The mission focuses on promoting peace, stability, security, and sustainable development by reducing tensions, supporting regional political dialogue, and strengthening partnerships with regional countries and institutions.
Key priorities for the special representative include supporting the European Strategy for the Great Lakes Region, conflict prevention, and promoting tension reduction, particularly in crisis areas such as eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The mission also involves strengthening regional political dialogue and mediation initiatives, notably the Luanda and Nairobi processes, and enhancing cooperation with regional organizations such as the African Union and the East African Community.
Before assuming his current position, Johan Borgstam served as Head of the European Union Delegation to Ethiopia and as EU Ambassador to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, and Greece, bringing extensive diplomatic experience in African and international contexts.