Luanda:The 'Eternal Alliance' Memorial was inaugurated as a testament to national artistic creativity and a symbol of promoting a culture of peace, historical memory preservation, and reconciliation among citizens, according to Angolan Culture Minister Filipe Zau.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Minister Zau emphasized the importance of placing art and culture in the service of peace and collective memory during the monument's inauguration. He noted that fostering a culture of peace is crucial for Angola's economic and social advancement, as it aids in overcoming underdevelopment challenges within a stable, tolerant, and human rights-respecting environment.
The minister highlighted that national progress is reliant on maintaining peace, reinforcing national reconciliation, consolidating democratic rule, and respecting citizens' fundamental rights. He stated that the memorial serves as a place for spiritual reflection and urged Angolans to let go of past grievances to strengthen reconciliation and coexistence.
The 'Eternal Alliance' Memorial honors those who lost their lives during political conflicts in Angola from 1975 to 2002. Located in Ingombota, near the Dr António Agostinho Neto Memorial, it aims to preserve the memory of these conflicts and impart lessons to younger generations to prevent historical mistakes from recurring.
The 35-meter-tall structure, comprising nine floors, features two interconnected blocks symbolizing reconciliation and forgiveness among Angolans. The complex includes various facilities, such as a digital archive, exhibition hall, and a landscaped square, integrating art, engineering, and architecture inspired by Angola's diverse cultural heritage.
Preserving this collective memory is seen as essential for national reconciliation by promoting historical awareness, acknowledging the victims' suffering, and affirming peace as a shared heritage of the Angolan people.
