Spanish Ambassador Reflects on Strengthened Angola Relations

Luanda:Outgoing Spanish Ambassador to Angola, Manuel Maria Lobo, stated that the cooperation and friendship between Angola and Spain are experiencing a period of close rapprochement. He made these remarks in Luanda on Monday after meeting with President Joo Lourenço during a farewell visit marking the end of his diplomatic mission. According to Angola Press News Agency, the meeting allowed Ambassador Lobo to evaluate bilateral relations and recall significant moments of cooperation between the two countries during his tenure. Among these highlights was the state visit by King Felipe VI of Spain to Angola in February 2023, which played a crucial role in enhancing relations. Ambassador Lobo also mentioned Spain's planned participation in the 50th-anniversary celebrations of Angola's National Independence in 2025 and the African Union-European Union Summit held in Angola, during which Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez visited the country. During the audience, President Joo Lourenço discussed Angola's recen t accession to the Ibero-American Community as an associate member state. Spain, alongside Portugal, supported Angola's application, recognizing the country's presentation of the necessary documentation to join the organization. Ambassador Lobo expressed gratitude for the support and openness shown by President Lourenço and the Angolan authorities throughout his mission. He emphasized that relations between the two countries are at an "excellent stage" and highlighted opportunities to increase Spanish investment in Angola, given the country's economic potential. Reflecting on his time in Angola since December 2021, Ambassador Lobo noted the high level of bilateral relations established after President Lourenço's official visit to Spain. He underscored the importance of the Spanish monarch's visit in 2023 as a significant milestone, marking it as his only state visit to sub-Saharan Africa. Ambassador Lobo concluded his mission in Angola by holding farewell meetings with various Angolan officials and institu tions, expressing his intention to continue supporting bilateral relations from Spain. Angola and Spain have maintained diplomatic relations since 1977, with cooperation in politics, economy, trade, culture, education, science, and infrastructure being strengthened over time.