Addis Ababa: Angolan President Joo Louren§o arrived Thursday in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to participate in the 38th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the African Union (AU), during which he will assume the leadership of the organization. Accompanied by the First Lady of Angola, Ana Dias Louren§o, the Angolan Head of State was received at the Bole International Airport by the Second Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Temesgen Tiruneh, the Foreign Minister of Angola, T©te Ant³nio, and other senior officials from both countries.
According to Angola Press News Agency, this marks a significant milestone for Angola as it will assume the rotating presidency of the AU for the first time in nearly 50 years of independence. Angola’s mandate will begin next Saturday and continue until February 2026, taking over from Mauritania. February 12 marked 49 years since Angola joined the Organization of African Unity (OAU), which preceded the AU.
In a recent interview, Foreign Minister T©te Ant³nio stated that Angola’s presidency aims to promote conflict resolution and sustainable development across Africa. The country plans to focus on initiatives related to education, health, and poverty reduction, aiming to improve the quality of life for Africans. The minister emphasized Angola’s commitment to fostering sustainable development and unity among African nations.
Minister Ant³nio highlighted that Angola’s leadership in the AU is a moment of pride and reflection, coinciding with the 50th anniversary of its independence. The country seeks to be a beacon of hope and progress, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to Africa’s future. Angola aims to leverage its historical experience in mediation and conflict resolution to promote peace and security throughout the continent, particularly in regions like the Great Lakes, the Sahel, and the Horn of Africa.
The diplomat further noted Angola’s dedication to multilateral cooperation, highlighting the importance of collective solutions to Africa’s challenges. Angola has worked closely with international partners and neighboring countries to develop comprehensive strategies for peace and development.
The high-level summit includes the 46th Session of the AU Executive Council, which reviewed the report of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Committee of Permanent Representatives. Delegates will also examine draft legal instruments, committee reports, and the agenda and decisions for the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government. The Assembly will elect and appoint six Commissioners of the AU Commission and other senior officials.
Leading the Angolan delegation is the Minister of Foreign Affairs, accompanied by the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, Esmeralda Mendon§a, the Secretary of State for Culture, Maria de Jesus, and the Angolan Ambassador to Ethiopia, Miguel Bembe.
