Luanda: Angolan President Joo Louren§o received a message from Congolese President Denis Sassou Nguesso, emphasizing the importance of friendship and cooperation between the two countries. The message was delivered in Luanda by Congolese Foreign Minister Jean-Claude Gakosso, who acted as the special envoy for the Congolese president.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the message was sent in honor of the upcoming 50th anniversary of Angolan independence, which will be celebrated on November 11. This anniversary holds deep symbolic value for both nations. Gakosso highlighted the historical ties between Angola and Congo, noting, “Angola and Congo are linked by blood, by land, and by history.” He also recalled the enthusiasm with which the Republic of Congo celebrated Angola’s independence in 1975.
During the meeting, the two leaders discussed issues of mutual interest, with a focus on regional peace and security. The Congolese diplomat praised President Louren§o’s role in peacemaking efforts in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and his leadership in organizing significant international events, such as the United States-Africa Business Summit hosted in Luanda. President Sassou Nguesso also extended his congratulations to President Louren§o for his commitment to African integration and the preparation of the upcoming African Union-European Union summit.
Another key topic was Angola’s support for Congolese Edouard Matoko’s candidacy for the position of Director-General of UNESCO. Matoko, a senior UNESCO official, has dedicated his career to the organization and represents the interests of the entire African group.
The bilateral relations between Angola and Congo are marked by cooperation in various sectors, including security, energy, transport, trade, education, and culture. Congo has historically supported Angola’s struggle for independence, and the two countries continue to engage in regular political dialogue. They share a border, necessitating constant coordination on security and mobility issues. In the defense sector, cooperation focuses on combating cross-border trafficking and border protection through the Permanent Joint Commission. In the energy sector, studies are underway between Sonangol and the Congolese company SNPC for potential joint hydrocarbon exploration.
