Angola Emphasizes Regional Development and Environmental Protection in South Atlantic

New York:Angola reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the Zone of Peace and Cooperation of the South Atlantic (ZOPACAS), urging member states to transform political pledges into concrete regional development and environmental protection programs. According to Angola Press News Agency, Angolan Foreign Minister Tete Antonio highlighted the Rio de Janeiro Cooperation Strategy as the guiding framework for collective action across the South Atlantic. He emphasized the importance of translating political commitments into tangible outcomes through improved coordination, shared expertise, and joint initiatives among member nations. The minister stressed that marine environmental protection is a priority, noting the South Atlantic's critical role in regional economies, food security, and livelihoods. António warned of increasing threats from marine pollution, illegal and unregulated fishing, biodiversity loss, and climate change. Angola is in the process of completing internal legal procedures to sign the Conv ention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the South Atlantic. António reiterated Luanda's support for the convention's preservation goals. Additionally, during the meeting, António formally presented ambassador Josefa Leonel Correia Sacko's candidacy for Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) for the 2027-2031 term. He emphasized that Sacko's bid, supported by the African Union, aims to improve food security, promote sustainable agriculture, and enhance rural living standards across Africa and the broader South Atlantic region.