Portugal’s Foreign minister, João Gomes Cravinho, on Tuesday in Luanda reaffirmed the strategic partnership with Angola, amongst others, in the areas of construction, industry, trade, finance and business.
Speaking to the press at the end of a meeting with the head of Angolan diplomacy, Téte António, the Portuguese minister said that strengthening bilateral cooperation had been discussed, particularly in terms of diversifying the economy.
João Gomes Cravinho said that the meeting also served to address visa issues and the existing strategic partnership between the two countries, having analysed the possibility of greater participation by Portuguese operators in Angola’s development.
Also read: First micro-diamond lab starts operation in Saurimo – Angola
Minister João Gomes Cravinho explained that the working visit to Angola had both a symbolic and a practical dimension. He stressed that it was important to signal this partnership at the beginning of “my mandate as Foreign Minister.
The visiting minister said, “Angola is a bilateral partner of the utmost importance. It is also currently the president of the CPLP – Community of Portuguese-speaking Countries and, therefore, there is a symbolic dimension.
For the head of Angolan diplomacy, Téte António, the visit by his Portuguese counterpart will boost cooperation between the two countries in several areas.
Also read: Angola Catoca diamond price drops 14% on market
Angola and Portugal established diplomatic relations on 9 March 1976.
Portugal is one of Angola’s main trading partners, with a strong presence in the construction, banking, food and beverage export sectors.
The establishment of diplomatic relations was preceded by the opening, by Portugal, in January 1976, of its Consulate General in Luanda.
Angola is one of the main investors in Portugal, with activities ranging from energy to telecommunications and banking.
