Africa-Press – Angola. Angola’s presidency of the African Union (AU) is expected to strengthen conflict resolution and sustainable development in Africa through policies and plans that benefit the continent, the country’s Foreign Minister Tête António told.
In an interview,the head of Angolan diplomacy said that the rotating presidency of the AU, which begins in February, is a “unique opportunity” for Angola to work with the other countries of the continent in the search for solutions to pacify and politically and socially stabilize Africa.
According to the diplomat, there is a strong intention for the country to show its commitment to sustainable development and unity among African nations, with initiatives focused on education, health and poverty reduction to improve the quality of life of Africans.
“The opportunity for Angola to lead the continental organization for the first time, especially in the year that marks the 50th anniversary of its independence, is a profound moment of pride and reflection,” Antonio said, stressing that the country expects to become a source of hope and progress,” with an “unwavering commitment” to the future of Africa.
The diplomat said he believes that the role of leading the continental organization during such a significant anniversary also brings an emotional feeling, as it serves as proof of the progress the country has made since achieving independence and provides a platform to demonstrate commitment to African unity, leading initiatives that promote sustainable development and peace throughout the continent.
Angola, the Minister said, is committed to promoting peace and security throughout Africa, based on its historical experience in mediation and conflict resolution, which includes addressing ongoing conflicts in regions such as the Great Lakes, the Sahel and the Horn of Africa, advocating dialogue and negotiation rather than military solutions.
In defense of multilateralism
The head of Angolan diplomacy added that Angola defends multilateral cooperation because it believes that the challenges facing Africa require collective solutions, so the country has worked closely with international partners and neighboring countries to develop comprehensive strategies for peace and development in the region.
With regard to the reform of the United Nations, another topic covered in the interview, the Minister stressed that Angola recognizes this urgent need, particularly with regard to the composition and configuration of the Security Council to a more inclusive representation of African countries, in order to put an end to the historical injustice of the lack of permanent seats for Africa.
“Angola will align its efforts with the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, which propose the allocation of two permanent seats and three additional non-permanent seats for Africa in the Security Council,” the Angolan diplomat said.
The minister said that Angola intends to work with regional and international partners to mobilize a coalition of countries that support the reform agenda and participate in forums and conferences focused on UN reform.
The idea, according to the minister, is to raise awareness of the importance of equitable representation for developing countries and to push for a reassessment of the current structure of the Security Council.
According to the diplomat, Angola’s pragmatic approach, combined with its willingness to support economic and social development initiatives that promote sustainable development and economic inclusion, can help create a more conducive environment for reducing tensions by addressing the root causes of conflicts, thus creating a more solid foundation for lasting peace.
However, the diplomat recognizes that Angola may face significant challenges, such as internal and external resistance from political and military actors who may oppose peace initiatives for self-interest, as well as complex regional dynamics, such as historical rivalries and border issues, which may complicate mediation efforts.
Another challenge, Minister said, is the lack of adequate resources and infrastructure to implement and sustain long-term solutions, as well as international dynamics and the influence of external powers, which can further complicate the situation, requiring skillful diplomacy and a sound strategic approach from Angola to overcome these obstacles.
The Minister emphasized that during its term, Angola will prioritize economic development and integration among African nations and the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to boost intra-African trade and economic cooperation.
When asked what role the Lobito Corridor could play in this process, the Minister replied that the Corridor is a vital piece of infrastructure aimed at improving connectivity and trade between Angola and other African countries.
By improving transportation links, the diplomat explained, it will facilitate the movement of goods and services to boost intra-African trade, which is a primary objective of the AfCFTA.
“The Lobito Corridor is in line with the objectives of the African Continental Free Trade Area, which aims to increase intra-African trade. By improving connectivity and facilitating the movement of goods across borders, the corridor can help maximize the benefits of the AfCFTA for all participating countries,” the minister said.
The minister said Angola has been working to ensure that its governmental and diplomatic machinery is adapted to meet and overcome future challenges, which is why there is a sense of optimism and readiness in the country as the AU presidency approaches, underlining its commitment to meet the expectations of other African nations.
Tete Antonio said Africans can expect a chairmanship characterized by a commitment to collaborative governance, peace-building and economic empowerment, while recognizing the continent’s rich history and potential.
“The nation has undertaken extensive preparatory activities, including strategic planning and consultations with key African partners, to ensure that it can effectively contribute to the overall objectives of the African Union during its tenure,” the Foreign Minister concluded.
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