Lisbon: Angola ambassador to Portugal, Maria de Jesus Ferreira, has urged Angolans residing in Portugal to maintain a strong connection to their homeland and uphold values of dialogue, unity, and peace. In her message commemorating the 49th anniversary of Angola’s national independence, celebrated on November 11, the ambassador emphasized the importance of carrying the nation in their hearts.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Maria de Jesus Ferreira highlighted the significance of preserving Angolan culture and living a life free from conflict while respecting the law. The ambassador encouraged the Angolan community in Portugal to actively and legitimately integrate into Portuguese society, aiming for improved living and working conditions.
The ambassador reiterated the embassy’s commitment to supporting Angolan citizens in Portugal. “You can continue to count on the possible support of the Embassy so that your aspirations and achievements have the expected result (…) with our authorities,” she state
d.
Maria de Jesus Ferreira also acknowledged the economic challenges exacerbated by the current international climate of conflicts. She called for unity in the shared effort to enhance Angola’s reputation in Portugal, urging the community to take pride in celebrating the 49th anniversary of national independence together, with a focus on remaining united.
The history of Angola’s independence dates back to November 11, 1975, when António Agostinho Neto, the then president of the ruling MPLA, declared the country’s independence from over five centuries of Portuguese colonization.