Malabo: Angolan Minister of Foreign Affairs, Téte António, announced that Angola has successfully transitioned the leadership of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OEACP) to Equatorial Guinea during the XI Summit of Heads of State and Government held in Malabo. According to Angola Press News Agency, Angola ended its rotating presidency of the 79-member bloc, with President Joo Lourenço officially handing over leadership to Equatorial Guinean President, Teodoro Obiang Nguema. The Angolan administration focused on the transformation of the OEACP and was recognized with a "resilience award" for its efforts during challenging times. The minister highlighted the establishment of new headquarters, a resource mobilization mechanism led by King Swati III, and a consultation mechanism as part of Angola's contributions. The summit addressed financing issues, raising more than 13 million dollars in voluntary contributions, alongside statutory contributions from member states. Key topics discus sed included youth, business, women forums, small countries, and developing islands. The Final Declaration emphasized the revitalization of the organization, including plans to relocate its secretariat to an African, Caribbean, or Pacific state, moving away from its current location in Brussels. The OEACP's role in reinforcing multilateralism and its presence in international forums in New York, Brussels, Geneva, Africa, and Vienna was reaffirmed. Trade and industrialization were also key topics, focusing on diversification, digitalization, and private sector involvement, especially regarding critical minerals and value chain transformation. Téte António concluded by affirming Angola's ongoing commitment to the organization's future endeavors, ensuring its contributions span across generations.
