Cascais: The presidents of Angola, Joo Louren§o, and Portugal, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, have emphasized the importance of strengthening economic and cultural cooperation within the community of Portuguese-speaking countries (CPLP). This call to action was made during the closing session of the Eurafrican Forum 2025, which took place from the 25th to the 26th of this month under the theme 'Transform Tomorrow: Build global partnerships to fulfill the 2063 Agenda'.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the session, titled 'Conversation with the Presidents' and moderated by journalist Joana Petiz, saw both leaders highlighting CPLP's role as a strategic platform for promoting development among its Member States. They underscored the organization's potential in political and economic concertation, aligning with current global geopolitical dynamics.
President Joo Louren§o pointed out that CPLP should leverage its linguistic and historical ties to offer practical benefits for its citizens through increased trade and effective cooperation. He remarked on the linguistic diversity within the community as a valuable asset, emphasizing that the Portuguese language, whether spoken in Lisbon or Luanda, unites the member nations with unique expressions reflecting their identities.
Louren§o also called for a renewed focus on investment in Africa, particularly in human capital. He stated that Africa's youthful demographic presents an opportunity for investment that would produce a qualified workforce beneficial to both the continent and the broader world. He suggested that such investments could address issues related to disordered migratory movements by creating conducive conditions within the countries themselves.
Meanwhile, President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa affirmed CPLP's functional and influential role, despite its understated presence on the international stage. He highlighted the community's strong political and historical connections, which, although not always visible, prove effective in their initiatives.
Both presidents stressed the necessity of enhancing mobility, political concertation, and financial cooperation within the Lusophone space to tackle contemporary challenges. The Eurafrican Forum 2025, organized by the ADF Foundation, aimed to fortify strategic partnerships and explore avenues for realizing the African Union Agenda 2063, drawing participation from numerous African and European leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.
