Africa-Press – Angola. President João Lourenço on Tuesday, in Luanda, reaffirmed the commitment of Angolan authorities to eliminate landmines from national territory by 2027, in order to consolidate the demining efforts that have been developed in recent decades.
In his message marking the 50th Anniversary of National Independence, João Lourenço said that the objective is to make Angola an officially mine-free country, a historic milestone symbolizing the victory of peace over the effects of armed conflict.
He emphasized that, together with international partners, Angola has made a great effort in demining, guaranteeing the free movement of people and goods, enabling agricultural projects and boosting other investments in economic and social development.
In the presence of thousands of national and international guests, including 13 heads of state, the Angolan statesman also stated that, since the proclamation of National Independence, Angola experienced a 27-year conflict that caused the loss of thousands of lives, the destruction of infrastructure and the division of families.
However, he noted that these difficulties were overcome with the achievement of peace on April 4, 2002, paving the way for national reconciliation and the construction of an inclusive society.
According to João Lourenço, despite the progress, the challenges remain enormous and complex.
The Head of State, added that within the 23 years of peace, the government has prioritized resolving the main problems inherited from the war, including the rehabilitation of essential infrastructure, the fight against hunger, poverty, and social inequalities, as well as the reintegration of displaced persons and refugees in dignified human conditions.
João Lourenço also highlighted the ongoing work on reforms in the business environment, directing foreign investment, diversifying the economy and expanding the supply of goods and services for domestic consumption and export.
To him, the main objective is to guarantee the social well-being of the population, expanding access to education, housing, water, energy, and health services, thus consolidating the foundations for sustainable and inclusive development.
The central event of the 50th Anniversary of National Independence continues in the Republic Square in the capital with the Civic and Military Parade.
The highlight of the event was the awarding of the Medal of Honour for the 50th Anniversary of National Independence to the founder of the Nation and the first president of Angola, António Agostinho Neto.
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