Luanda: President Joo Louren§o announced on Wednesday that Agostinho Neto, Jonas Savimbi, and Holden Roberto, the signatories of the Alvor Agreement, will be awarded medals in celebration of the 50th anniversary of National Independence. The Alvor Agreement, signed on January 15, 1975, in Portugal by Agostinho Neto of the MPLA, Holden Roberto of the FNLA, and Jonas Savimbi of UNITA, represented a fundamental milestone in Angola's transition to independence, proclaimed on November 11, 1975.
According to Angola Press News Agency, during his State of the Nation Address, Louren§o said that recognizing figures who contributed to the liberation and formation of the Angolan state is "an act of unique sentimental significance," symbolizing the country's respect and gratitude for those who fought for sovereignty and peace. "The Angolan nation's recognition of the sacrifices and commitment of thousands of its children and foreign citizens, who demonstrated a high sense of patriotism to bequeath us a free land, is noble and of unique sentimental significance," stated President Louren§o.
The president emphasized that this decision is part of the spirit of forgiveness and national reconciliation, strengthening cohesion and unity among Angolans regardless of their political or historical backgrounds. By extending national recognition to the signatories of these agreements, Louren§o emphasized that the country honors its past and reaffirms its commitment to a future of peace, development, and unity.
The awards will be presented during the official 50th anniversary independence celebrations, which are held under the motto "Angola - 50 Years of Independence, Peace, and Development." This will be a symbolic celebration of collective memory and reunion for all Angolans.
