Madrid:Angola and the Ibero-American Organization convened in Madrid to forge new pathways for political, economic, and diplomatic collaboration, marking Angola's entry as an Associate Observer State in the organization.
According to Angola Press News Agency, Angolan Foreign Minister Téte António engaged in discussions with Ibero-American Organization Secretary-General Andrés Allamand at the organization's headquarters. The talks focused on Angola's integration into the international forum.
During the meeting, Secretary-General Allamand praised Angola's membership, highlighting the country's significant diplomatic influence in Africa and its standing as the second-largest Portuguese-speaking nation globally. He emphasized Angola's potential role as a bridge between the Ibero-American community and African Union member states, and indicated the General Secretariat's readiness to assist in establishing diplomatic ties with Latin American countries where Angola currently lacks representation.
Minister António expressed appreciation for Angola's admission and confirmed the nation's commitment to actively participating in the organization. He emphasized Angola's strategic location as a natural link between Latin America and Central and Southern Africa, offering unique opportunities for bilateral trade.
The discussions also addressed Angola's growing economic influence in the region, spotlighting business and trade prospects associated with the Lobito Corridor. This vital transit route is seen as a key driver for increased economic integration and investment between Latin American and African markets.
On the political front, Minister António reiterated Angola's commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and peacebuilding, noting President João Lourenço's ongoing efforts as the African Union's Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa. Additionally, António sought Secretary-General Allamand's support for the candidacy of Angolan ambassador Josefa Sacko for Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization.
The high-level meeting, attended by Angola's ambassador to Spain, Balbina Malheiro Dias da Silva, and senior ministry officials, sets the stage for the formalization of Angola’s membership at the 30th Ibero-American Summit of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for November 3 to 5 in Madrid.
