Moroni:Angola's newly appointed ambassador to the Union of the Comoros, Domingos de Almeida da Silva Coelho, officially presented his credentials to Comorian President Azali Assoumani, signaling a renewed effort to enhance economic, agricultural, and diplomatic relations between the two African nations.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the ceremony took place at the Beit-Salam Palace in Moroni, marking the formalization of Ambassador Coelho's diplomatic role. This event sets the groundwork for a joint Bilateral Commission planned for later in the month.
President Assoumani extended warm greetings to Angolan President João Lourenço, praising Angola's contributions to economic growth, good governance, and regional stability. He referred to Angola as an "older brother" and emphasized the historic bond shared by the nations, both gaining independence in November 1975. Assoumani highlighted Angola's post-war reconstruction as a model, suggesting potential collaboration in fields like engineering, energy, petroleum, medicine, and fisheries.
The Comorian president expressed a desire to revitalize the General Cooperation Agreement and sought Angola's support in priority areas crucial for his country's socio-economic progress, particularly in energy, agriculture, fishing, tourism, and training. He also noted interest in Angola's experiences in sectors such as petroleum and medicine.
Ambassador Coelho reaffirmed Angola's commitment to developing a mutually beneficial economic partnership, focusing on synergies in agriculture to tackle food security challenges. He proposed that Comorian entities could invest in food production on Angolan soil, with the produce exported back to Comoros, given the islands' geographical constraints on extensive farming.
Additionally, Coelho reiterated Angola's support for the territorial integrity of the Comoros, which includes Ngazidja, Anjouan, Mayotte, and Moheli. Both nations are preparing for the upcoming Bilateral Commission in October, where they anticipate signing formal agreements to expand trade, transport, and private investment.
