Luanda: The Minister of National Defence, Former Combatants and Veteran of the Fatherland, Lºcio Gon§alves Amaral, emphasized the necessity for coordinated and multidimensional responses to complex threats impacting the Angolan and regional maritime zone. He delivered these remarks on Friday in Luanda during the opening of the Symposium on Maritime Security, part of the celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of the Angolan Navy (MGA), which falls on July 10.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Amaral highlighted that the sea is crucial for economic development, geostrategic projection, and national sovereignty. He pointed out persistent challenges such as piracy, armed robberies, illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, drug, arms and human trafficking, illegal immigration, smuggling, and marine pollution. The minister underlined that maritime security necessitates an integrated approach involving state institutions, regional organizations, the private sector, coastal communities, research centers, and international partners.
Amaral further stressed the importance of enhancing maritime governance and improving surveillance and enforcement mechanisms. He reaffirmed the Executive's commitment to modernizing defense capabilities and enhancing human resources, highlighting that stability in the Gulf of Guinea is a collective responsibility requiring continuous dialogue and concerted actions between coastal states.
Admiral Valentim Alberto Ant³nio, commander of the Angolan Navy (MGA), stressed that Angola should aim to be a 'true regional maritime power' rather than merely a nation with a coastline. He noted that the profound transformations of the international order have endowed the oceans with renewed strategic value, serving as global trade corridors, reserves of critical resources, and arenas for geopolitical disputes.
The admiral also emphasized that their maritime domain offers much more than a natural border; it projects sovereignty, the economy, energy security, and opportunities in the Blue Economy. In marking half a century of existence, the institution is preparing for a new era where operational superiority will increasingly rely on knowledge, technology, innovation, and excellence in human resources.
During the event, military authorities explored public policies and strategic decisions aimed at strengthening the National Maritime Security Architecture within a strategic vision. The event also addressed the growing importance of maritime security for national and international stability, promoting cooperation, and fostering a robust maritime mindset among citizens.
