Luanda: German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier left Huambo province after a brief but intensive visit as part of his ongoing state tour in Angola, which commenced earlier this month. During his time in Huambo, he engaged with several pivotal scientific, industrial, and social initiatives, underscoring the collaborative efforts between Germany and Angola.
According to Angola Press News Agency, one of the significant highlights of President Steinmeier's visit was his tour of the construction site of the Bio Veterinary and Animal Vaccine Production Center. This ambitious project, which carries a financial backing of £125,221,858 from German banks, is anticipated to be completed by early 2026. The project exemplifies the growing scientific and industrial cooperation between the two nations.
In addition to this, Steinmeier visited The HALO Trust facilities, a non-governmental organization dedicated to demining efforts, and the 'Princess Diana' Center for Medicine and Physical Rehabilitation. His itinerary also included a symbolic train journey between Huambo and Ca¡la, covering a 23-kilometer stretch with a notable stop at the Nossa Senhora do Monte Sanctuary.
As President Steinmeier concluded his visit, he was seen off at Albano Machado Airport by a delegation of Angolan officials, including Huambo's provincial governor Pereira Alfredo and Minister of Foreign Affairs Tªte Ant³nio. The farewell ceremony was also attended by Ministers Isaac dos Anjos, Ricardo de D'Abreu, and Slvia Lutucuta, representing the sectors of Agriculture and Forestry, Transport, and Health, respectively.
President Steinmeier's engagement in Huambo is part of his broader state visit aimed at reinforcing the partnership between Angola and Germany, a relationship that has been nurtured since 1979 and solidified through a comprehensive cooperation agreement in 2011. This agreement spans various sectors such as energy, infrastructure, science, agriculture, and technical and vocational training, highlighting the multifaceted ties between the two countries.