Luanda: The Angolan Head of State and Chairperson of the African Union, Joo Louren§o, assured on Tuesday, in Luanda, that the partnership between Africa and the European Union is based on the trust built over the last decades, dispelling fears of neocolonial practices. Speaking at a joint press conference with the President of the European Council, Ant³nio Costa, held shortly after the closing of the 7th African Union-European Union Summit, which took place from the 24th to the 25th, in Luanda, President Joo Louren§o stated that African countries have as their main guarantee, against possible European neocolonial tendencies, the trust established over the last 25 years of strategic partnership between the two continents.
According to Angola Press News Agency, President Louren§o addressed concerns about European interest in African minerals, emphasizing that the current relationship is based on mutual trust and specific projects. When questioned about the growing Russian presence in Africa and the continent's stance on the war in Ukraine, Louren§o acknowledged the historical support from the Soviet Union for African liberation movements, highlighting the 'eternal gratitude' of the African people. However, he clarified that Africa is now guided by the defense of universal principles, advocating for justice and the sovereignty of nations, including Ukraine's right to territorial integrity.
Joo Louren§o pointed out that the invasion of Ukraine violates the international order and warned that allowing a State to disrespect recognized borders could lead to global instability. The 7th AU-EU Summit concluded in Luanda with calls for enhancing economic, energy, and security cooperation, and upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter in addressing global crises.
The event marked the 25th anniversary of formal cooperation between the two regional blocs, under the theme 'Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Effective Multilateralism'. The meeting was co-chaired by Joo Louren§o and Ant³nio Costa, featuring participation from 28 Heads of State and Government and 18 representatives from African countries, alongside 14 European leaders and representatives from 12 European Union Member States.
