Luanda: Ambassadors from European countries accredited to Angola on Monday reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the development of the blue economy in the country, within the framework of the project 'Initiative for a Sustainable and Strategic Blue Economy in Angola', financed by the European Union. Speaking in Luanda at the 1st Workshop presenting the project, the Portuguese ambassador to Angola, Nuno Matias, stated that the initiative aims to transform Angola's maritime potential into an engine for sustainable growth, food security, and economic prosperity.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the diplomat emphasized that the project is aligned with the Angolan national strategy for the maritime sector and focuses on an integrated approach that combines ocean conservation with economic development. He highlighted that the objectives of the initiative include strengthening the implementation of the maritime spatial planning plan, enhancing institutional capacities, and raising awareness among local communities about the sustainable management of marine resources. Matias remarked on Angola's extraordinary maritime heritage and its unique conditions to establish the ocean economy as a strategic pillar of its development. He noted the significant role of the fisheries sector, which employs over 150,000 people and represents nearly 3% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), as an essential component of the blue economy.
In turn, the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to Angola, Manuel Maria Lejarreta, stressed that the project is the result of extensive consultation between European partners and the Angolan Government and aims to support the sustainable development of the fisheries sector and marine resources. He cited Spain's experience in fisheries, marine research, and sustainability, pledging to put this knowledge at the service of cooperation with Angola. Lejarreta also emphasized that the project seeks to boost governance in the sector, promote economic development linked to the sea, and ensure the preservation of marine ecosystems.
The French ambassador to Angola, Sophie Aubert, stated that for her country, the priorities of food security and the preservation of biodiversity go hand in hand. She explained that these dimensions should not be treated separately, as human development depends on the conservation of ecosystems. Aubert highlighted the importance of the oceans in combating climate change and preserving biodiversity, recalling France's active role in promoting international initiatives related to the environment and the governance of the seas. She noted France's possession of one of the largest maritime economic zones globally, reinforcing its interest in cooperating with Angola in the development of the blue economy. The diplomat stressed that French participation in the project, through the mobilization of experts and specialized institutions, reflects the European Union's prioritization of sustainable ocean management.
The project "Initiative for a Sustainable and Strategic Blue Economy in Angola" is funded by the European Union and involves institutions such as the Camµes Institute, the International and Ibero-American Foundation for Administration and Public Policies (FIAP), Expertise France, and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
