Angolan President Returns After UN General Assembly Participation

Luanda:Angolan President Joo Lourenço has returned to the country after attending the 81st session of the UN General Assembly in New York, where he addressed key global issues concerning international peace and security. According to Angola Press News Agency, President Lourenço was accompanied by First Lady Ana Dias Lourenço and was received at 4 de Fevereiro International Airport by Vice-President Esperança da Costa. During his speech on September 22, he highlighted the deteriorating global security environment, describing it as a state of 'global anarchy' where force is favored over reason and law. President Lourenço called for a strengthened role of the United Nations, emphasizing dialogue, diplomacy, and international law as vital tools for conflict resolution. He condemned terrorism and warned of potential global conflicts due to rising regional tensions. The president also discussed Angola's initiatives to prevent and resolve conflicts in Africa, referencing the recent 21st Extraordinary Session of th e African Union in Luanda and Security Council Resolution 2719 for funding peace operations. The embargo against Cuba was another topic of concern, with President Lourenço urging its end, citing it as unjust and against international law principles. He acknowledged Cuba's role in fighting apartheid and the 1988 New York Accords. His address also covered conflicts in Europe, the Middle East, the Persian Gulf, Africa, climate change, development financing, debt, and artificial intelligence challenges. Reform of the United Nations Security Council was emphasized, with a call for increased African representation. This participation coincides with Angola's upcoming milestone of 50 years as a UN member, reinforcing its commitment to multilateralism and peaceful conflict solutions. On the sidelines, President Lourenço held discussions with world leaders, including European Council President António Costa, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, UN Secretary-General António Guterres, and Portuguese Prime Minister Luí s Montenegro. Conversations focused on economic partnerships, trade relations, and bilateral cooperation. Additional meetings included exchanges with figures like Jeffrey Sachs from Columbia University and businessman Rob Walton on development priorities, as well as discussions with UN officials and Chevron's President about Angola's development. A notable meeting with NBA delegates explored the potential of hosting NBA Playoff games in Luanda, a prospect supported by President Lourenço. The UN General Assembly session was themed 'Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that Delivers for All'.