REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA IN JAPAN INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATION AND PRESS SERVICES
Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Téte António, is already in Seoul, Republic of Korea, to participate in the Meeting of Foreign Ministers of African Countries and Korea, which begins Monday.
The meeting brings together African and South Korean diplomatic leaders with the aim of strengthening political dialogue, deepening multilateral cooperation, and identifying new opportunities for strategic partnership in areas of common interest, with a focus on trade, investment, technological innovation, sustainable development, education, health, and digital transition.
The meeting takes place against an international backdrop marked by complex and interdependent challenges, which require coordinated responses and the strengthening of effective strategic partnerships among states.
Relations between the Republic of Korea and African countries have been gaining increasing relevance, establishing themselves as an important platform for political dialogue and economic cooperation.
According to the statement, this partnership has seen significant progress, based on a pragmatic approach focused on sustainable development and mutual benefit.
In the current international landscape, cooperation between the two parties takes on a strategic character, reflecting converging interests in economic growth, stability, innovation, and development.
Angola’s participation in this meeting reaffirms the country’s commitment to active and dynamic diplomacy, aimed at consolidating strategic international partnerships and promoting national interests within the framework of international cooperation.
REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA IN JAPAN INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATION AND PRESS SERVICES
PRESS RELEASE
Tokyo, May 26, 2026 – The Ambassador of Angola to Japan, Teodolinda Rosa Rodrigues, was one of the guests at the dinner organized by the Diplomatic Corps in Tokyo in commemoration of May 25th, Africa Day.
The event was attended by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takai-chi, who highlighted her government’s strategy to adopt a broader approach to Japan’s diplomacy toward Africa.
The minister referred to the recent visit by Japan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Toshimitsu Motegi, to Angola, Zambia, Kenya, and South Africa, with the aim of strengthening cooperation in economic areas such as critical minerals and energy, while also promoting collaboration in the field of security and responding to an increasingly challenging international environment.
Regarding Angola, for example, Japan intends to deepen cooperation in the field of rare earths and encourage Japanese companies to participate in the Angolan oil market.
Takaichi emphasized that “Japan pioneered the launch of the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in 1993, following the end of the Cold War.” She added that “in a context where the international community faces numerous challenges, it is essential that Japan and Africa work side by side to create joint solutions to global issues.”
The prime minister also addressed the concept of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific, reaffirming Japan’s determination to further deepencooperation with African countries, supporting them in strengthening their “resilience” and their ability to freely determine their own future.
She also highlighted Africa’s potential in mineral resources and the continent’s dynamism as it moves toward robust growth and development.
Although Africa may seem geographically distant to many Japanese people, its importance is constantly growing from the perspective of economic security as well, including the strengthening of the resilience of critical mineral supply chains and energy security—issues directly linked to the daily lives of the Japanese people and Japan’s economy.
In this context, the current reality of the international community shows that various countries are seeking to strengthen their relations with Africa through their own approaches. Japan, for its part, has built relationships of trust with African nations over time through TICAD, launched back in the 1990s, as well as through bilateral cooperation with these countries.
The Prime Minister stated that she was particularly impressed by the optimism of African youth regarding the future and wished success for the 10th TICAD, to be held next year on the African continent.
Africa Day was established by the United Nations to mark the creation of the Organization of African Unity—now the African Union—on May 25, 1963.
INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AND PRESS SERVICES, EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA IN JAPAN, in Tokyo, May 26, 2026. –
Angola is an important and valued partner of the United States of America (USA) in Africa, with the two countries deepening cooperation in areas such as trade, infrastructure, energy, transportation, health, education, innovation, and regional security.
This statement was made on Tuesday by U.S. Chargé d’Affaires Shannon Cazeau in a statement sent to Jornal de Angola Online on the occasion of the 33rd anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
“As we celebrate thirty-three years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Angola, we celebrate not only the history of our partnership but also the important progress we are building together for the future,” she emphasized.
Strong and Strategic Partnership
Over the past three decades, she said, the relationship between our two countries has evolved into a strong and strategic partnership. This partnership is based on mutual respect and a shared commitment to prosperity, peace, and security.
For the U.S. diplomat, one of the clearest examples of this growing partnership is the Lobito Corridor initiative. Through cooperation between Angola, the United States, regional partners, and the private sector, we are supporting infrastructure and transportation projects.
“These projects will strengthen connections between countries in the region, facilitate trade, reinforce supply chains, and create long-term economic opportunities for Angola and the entire region. The recent financing agreements from the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation for the Lobito Atlantic Railway represent an important milestone in this effort,” she stated.
Shannon Cazeau also stated that U.S. companies are expanding their investments and partnerships in Angola. Projects such as the Acrow bridges initiative are improving transportation and connecting communities across the country. These projects help families gain safer and more efficient access to schools, healthcare, and markets.
Therefore, she emphasized, “the United States remains committed to working alongside Angola to build a safer, stronger, and more prosperous future for the people of both countries.”
For centuries, India and the African continent have maintained close ties through trade, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people interactions, which have played a key role in strengthening the friendship they enjoy in modern times.
India has steadfastly supported African countries’ struggle against colonialism, inspired by its own experience in fighting foreign domination. Today, the African continent occupies a central position in India’s foreign policy. Our relationship with Africa is rooted in the principles of equality, mutual respect, and shared progress.
The fundamental principles guiding India’s engagement with Africa were articulated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in the Ugandan Parliament in 2018. Guided by these principles, India has intensified its interactions with African countries across all sectors.
The vision of Developed India 2047 (Viksit Bharat-2047) also aligns well with Africa’s “Agenda 2063,” both of which are geared toward promoting progress and prosperity through sustainable development and inclusive growth.
A defining feature of India-Africa relations is the commitment to a more inclusive and representative global order. The country firmly believes that the voice of the Global South should shape global governance in the coming years. Based on this conviction, India has worked proactively to secure the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20 during the group’s presidency in 2023.
African nations are also active members of global initiatives led by India, such as the International Solar Alliance, the Global Biofuels Alliance, the International Alliance for Big Cats, and the Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure.
India is currently one of Africa’s largest trading partners and leading investors. Our cooperation spans a broad spectrum, including energy, infrastructure, connectivity, health, education, agriculture, science and technology, capacity building, and development assistance.
The African continent is one of the largest beneficiaries of India’s external development support through concessional credit lines, financial assistance, skills enhancement initiatives, and scholarship programs.
Our collaboration is venturing into new areas, such as fintech, innovation, emerging technologies, critical minerals, and rare earths, where co-creation, joint innovation, and local ownership are the guiding principles.
Cooperation with Angola
Angola plays a crucial role in India’s energy security. Over the years, economic relations have diversified into other fields, such as diamonds, agriculture, power transmission, infrastructure, health and pharmaceuticals, education, tourism, and hospitality, among others.
In May 2025, President João Lourenço made a historic state visit to India, marking the first high-level exchange between the two countries in 38 years.
Subsequently, the President of India visited Angola in November 2025, during which she also participated in a meeting with Angolan representatives.
The celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Angola’s independence saw the signing of several memorandums of understanding during these visits, covering key areas and laying the groundwork for the consolidation of India’s relations with Angola.
As part of efforts to further intensify engagement with African countries, the Indian government is organizing the 4th edition of the India-Africa Forum (IAFS-IV), from May 28 to 31, 2026, in New Delhi.
Launched in 2008, this flagship event brings together African leaders and policymakers with their Indian counterparts. The upcoming IAFS will provide a platform to shape the next phase of the India-Africa partnership—a phase that is more ambitious, inclusive, and future-oriented.
The theme of IAFS-IV is “IA-SPIRIT – India-Africa Strategic Partnership for Innovation, Resilience, and Inclusive Transformation.”
The event will provide an opportunity to exchange best practices and successful experiences, as well as to discuss common challenges in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
The India-Africa partnership seeks not only economic growth, but also the empowerment of people, the strengthening of institutions, the building of ambitious and resilient societies, and the creation of pathways for meaningful change.
It conveys a message not only of stability in a turbulent world, but also of reliability in times of uncertainty and solidarity in difficult times. Together, India and Africa will build a better world for all.
Angola, as a key member of the AU, also stands to gain from this forward-looking and mutually beneficial partnership.
INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AND PRESS OFFICE, EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA IN JAPAN, in Tokyo on May 12, 2026. –
EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA IN JAPAN INSTITUTIONAL AND PRESS SERVICE PRESS RELEASE
Tokyo, May 11, 2026 – Angola’s Ambassador to Japan, Teodolinda Rosa Rodrigues Coelho, highlighted on Monday (May 11) the importance of the Portuguese language as a factor in cultural cohesion and the affirmation of identity for the more than 230 million Portuguese speakers worldwide.
The diplomat was speaking at Portugal’s official residence in Tokyo during a ceremony commemorating World Portuguese Language Day, celebrated on May 5, and the 30th anniversary of the Community of Portuguese-Speaking Countries (CPLP).
The event was attended by Japan’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Iwao Horii, who reaffirmed the importance of strategic cooperation between Japan and the CPLP countries. Japan has been an observer member of the organization since 2014, becoming the first Asian country to obtain this status.
Portuguese is the official language of nine countries: Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor Leste, as well as the Macao Special Administrative Region of China. It is also the most widely spoken language in the Southern Hemisphere.
May 5 was established as World Portuguese Language Day in 2009, during the 14th Ordinary Meeting of the CPLP Council of Ministers, held in the city of Praia, Cape Verde. It was subsequently officially proclaimed by UNESCO on November 25, 2019, during the 40th session of the organization’s General Conference, making Portuguese the first language in the world to have official date recognized by the United Nations.
The celebration in Tokyo took place this Monday due to its overlap with Golden Week, a period of extended holidays in Japan that runs from April 29 to May 5.
INSTITUTIONAL COMMUNICATIONS AND PRESS OFFICE, EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ANGOLA IN JAPAN, in Tokyo on May 12, 2026. –
As part of the commemorations of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the Republic of Angola and Japan, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, His Excellency Toshimitsu Motegi, undertook an official visit to Luanda within the framework of a tour covering four African countries from 29 April to 6 May.
During his stay in Angola, the Japanese Minister was received in audience by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Angola, João Lourenço, at the Presidential Palace in Cidade Alta.
Strengthening bilateral relations
During the meeting, the Angolan Head of State expressed his appreciation for Japan’s continued support to Angola, particularly in the areas of infrastructure, health, and demining, within the framework of cooperation developed through the JICA and the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD).
President João Lourenço also reiterated Angola’s readiness to further deepen and diversify bilateral cooperation, with particular emphasis on strengthening economic relations and increasing private investment.
In turn, Minister Toshimitsu Motegi conveyed condolences for the recent floods in Benguela Province and expressed appreciation for Angola’s role as co-chair of TICAD 9. The Japanese Minister also underscored the importance of a free, open, and rules-based international order, in the context of Japan’s “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” (FOIP) initiative.
Economic cooperation and investment
Both parties reaffirmed their shared interest in strengthening economic cooperation, particularly in the fields of energy, critical minerals, and oil, areas in which Angola holds significant potential.
They also highlighted the importance of encouraging Japanese companies to participate in Angola’s crude oil trade and of reinforcing the implementation of the Bilateral Investment Agreement in force since 2024.
The Japanese Minister further noted the growing interest of Japan’s private sector in the Angolan market, referring to recent initiatives such as the issuance of Samurai Bonds and investment projects in infrastructure and natural resources.
Institutional cooperation and sustainable development
During the visit, the Japanese Minister for Foreign Affairs also held working meetings with Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Téte António, and the Minister of State for Economic Coordination, José de Lima Massano.
On May 2, Health Minister Sílvia Lutucuta met with Motegi Toshimitsu in Luanda as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation between Angola and Japan. The Japanese delegation’s visit aimed to share experiences and strengthen institutional ties between the two countries. After the meeting, the delegation took a guided tour of the Josina Machel Hospital, accompanied by the Minister of Health. The hospital was renovated and equipped with funding from the Japanese government.
These discussions addressed cooperation opportunities in agriculture, public health, human capital development, and infrastructure, including ongoing flagship projects in Angola.
Future prospects
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening a mutually beneficial partnership based on trust, respect, and sustainable development.
Japan reiterated its intention to continue supporting Angola’s industrialisation process and productive sectors, while Angola expressed its commitment to creating favourable conditions for investment and economic cooperation.
This visit forms part of broader efforts to deepen Africa–Asia relations and contributes to strengthening the strategic partnership between Angola and Japan ahead of the next TICAD edition.
The Angolan Space Program ranks among the top five on the African continent, according to the report “African Space Industry – Market Analysis 2026,” produced by Space in Africa.
The statement was made on Monday by the organization’s executive director, Temidayo Oniosun, during the opening session of NewSpace Africa 2026, taking place in Libreville, Gabon.
In his remarks, Oniosun highlighted Angola’s progress, ranking the country among Africa’s top five space economies, alongside South Africa, Morocco, Algeria, and Nigeria.
The results of the National Space Program, a product of the Angolan government’s investment and vision, coordinated by the Ministry of Telecommunications, Information Technology, and Media (MINTTICS), were also highlighted by the chairman of the African Space Agency (AfSA) Council, Tidiane Ouattara, during a meeting with the continent’s space agencies.
“We are striving; we must be capable; we must innovate. That is why we highlight the example of Angola, which is making significant progress. What people sometimes fail to understand is that this country is changing. Those who have been in the space arena for over twenty years can clearly see this,” he stated.
Angola is participating in what is considered the largest African space conference, which runs through tomorrow in the Gabonese capital. The opening panel brought together representatives from the continent’s leading space agencies, namely Algeria, Angola, Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt.
During his remarks on the main panel titled “Catalyzing Africa’s Commercial Space Economy,” the Director-General of the National Space Program Management Office (GGPEN), Zolana João, highlighted that Angola built its space program “from scratch” and that it currently provides services with national and regional impact.
The Angolan delegation in Libreville is participating in several panels related to connectivity, as well as strategic meetings with delegations from various countries and companies in the space sector interested in learning about business opportunities in Angola’s space sector.
Angolan Youth Honored
The coordinator of the Geodata Center (GEDAE), Luciano Costa Dembue Lupedia, was honored as one of the most outstanding young African professionals in the space sector, reflecting Angola’s talent, dedication, and growing contribution to the development of the space economy on the continent.
According to a statement sent to Jornal de Angola, the Young African Space Professionals Award 2026—a merit-based continental recognition program—is a joint initiative of Space in Africa and the African Space Agency. Its goal is to highlight the next generation of students and professionals whose work is already influencing and contributing, in a measurable way, to the development of the space sector in Africa.
The award ceremony took place during the NewSpace Africa Conference, Africa’s premier business and policy event for innovation, technology, and advancements in space and satellite sectors. The conference brings together decision-makers, industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators from Africa and abroad, shaping the future of the industry through in-depth discussions, agenda-setting, presentations, collaborations, and partnerships, as well as the development of business strategies.
Angola hosted the third edition of the NewSpace Africa Conference, held from April 2 to 5, 2024, in Luanda, under the coordination of MINTTICS.
The event, organized by the African Union (AU) and Space in Africa, brought together more than 400 representatives from governments, space industry leaders, and space agencies from 46 countries and six continents to discuss the growth of the African space economy.
The golden year for the global projection of national tourism continues, and this time it was the readers of Viajes National Geographic who voted Angola as the Best International Destination 2026.
In an article written for Viajes National Geographic in January 2026, titled “Angola, a jewel to be discovered in southwest Africa,” it states that the national territory is a place filled with treasures for travelers, where “authenticity, adventure, rhythm, and hospitality” lead visitors to the most diverse charms of Mother Nature.
This segment, aimed primarily at a Spanish audience, focuses on showcasing landscapes and countries through in-depth reporting and detailed pieces that convince people to want to peer a little further than what is shown in the photos, which are carefully chosen to illustrate such destinations.
This year, there were 98 competing countries divided into 14 categories, which included the selection of the best destinations, hotels, and sustainability projects. Angola captured the readers’ attention and secured an unexpected first place as the Best International Destination.
In turn, the island of Menorca was distinguished as the best sustainable destination, while, for example, the region of A Coruña, in Galicia, was voted as having the best tourism sustainability project.
On social media, JA Online noted the reaction of the Ministry of Tourism, which expressed a “deep sense of pride” over the achievement, stating that it is “recognition of the grandeur of our landscapes and the intangible richness of our culture.”
This award also represents the consecration of a destination that is increasingly “establishing itself” through its “authenticity and the hospitality of its people.”
Furthermore, thanks were extended to the voters, as well as to those who have helped and continue to help promote Angola as a destination of excellence on the global tourism stage.
It is worth noting that this award comes at a time when the tourism sector still faces challenges in meeting local demand and serving the needs of Angolans. Distinctions such as this one can benefit or leverage the progressive reforms that have been taking place recently, with the arrival of international figures such as Speed, Will Smith, the Argentine National Team, Joe Biden, and the most recent in everyone’s memory: the Pope, along with the arrival of cruise ships in Namibe and Luanda, as well as the Rovos Rail trains.
With vast potential for exploration in this field, investing in tourism—as the head of the Ministry of Tourism (MINTUR) stated during the latest “Café Cipra” talk—is still currently done only by those who have passion. However, the objective is that one day this reality will reach the entire population with an offer that is both high-quality and affordable for every budget, he assured.
Pope Leo XIV bids farewell to Angolans this Tuesday morning after completing a four-day apostolic visit marked by moments of blessing, faith, closeness, and spiritual reflection.
During his stay in the country, the Holy Father maintained a busy schedule, the highlight of which was his meeting with the President of the Republic, João Lourenço, who welcomed him upon arrival at the 4 de Fevereiro International Airport in Luanda.
Following this, the Head of the Catholic Church met with his counterpart João Lourenço at the Presidential Palace in Cidade Alta, where they held a private meeting, followed by an exchange of gifts.
In every part of the city he passed through, Pope Leo XIV was greeted with enthusiasm, applause, and expressions of affection from the faithful and the general public.
On the same day, Leo XIV’s schedule also included a meeting with authorities, civil society, and the diplomatic corps accredited to Angola, in the Protocol Hall of the Presidency of the Republic.
Second Day
On Sunday, the 19th, the Pontiff traveled to the Kilamba Centrality, where he celebrated an open-air Mass that brought together more than 600,000 faithful.
On the same day, the Pope traveled by helicopter to the town of Muxima, in the province of Icolo e Bengo, where he led the recitation of the rosary, a moment that reinforced the spiritual value and importance of prayer.
Third Day
On Monday, the 20th, Pope Leo XIV left the Apostolic Nunciature in the early hours of the day, bound for the city of Saurimo. In that eastern region of the country, he visited the Nursing Home for the Elderly, which houses more than 74 residents.
Accompanied by the Archbishop of Saurimo, Bishop José Manuel Imbamba, the Holy Father proceeded to the Cathedral, where he remained for a few minutes of prayer.
Pope Leo XIV’s schedule in Saurimo culminated with the celebration of an open-air Mass on the city’s esplanade.
On the same day, the Pope returned to the Apostolic Nunciature in Luanda and later met with bishops, priests, and consecrated men and women at the Parish of Our Lady of Fatima (Church of St. Dominic), marking the final stage of the third day of his visit to Angola.
Moments of blessing marked the Pope’s arrival and departure from the Apostolic Nunciature, the Vatican’s headquarters in Angola, on several occasions.
Fourth Day
Starting at 8:45 a.m. this Tuesday, according to the schedule released by the Holy See, a farewell ceremony for Pope Leo XIV will be held at 4 de Fevereiro International Airport.
At 9:15 a.m., the plane carrying the Holy Father will depart the Angolan capital bound for the city of Malabo, continuing his apostolic journey to the African continent.
Leo XIV is the third Pope to visit Angola, following John Paul II in 1992 and Benedict XVI in 2009.
From the 17th to the 19th of this month, Angola participated in the fifth edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, held in Antalya, Turkey, under the theme “Mapping Tomorrow, Managing Uncertainties.”
The Angolan delegation, led by Angola’s Ambassador to Turkey, João Salvador dos Santos Neto, participated in several panels, including one on “The Role of Regional Governance in a Changing World,” where one of the speakers was the President of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Félix Tshisekedi.
It is worth noting that during the presentations, the President of the DRC and the Ministers of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia and Botswana highlighted the importance of the Lobito Corridor for the regional and international economy.
In his opening remarks at the 5th edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan stated that Turkey does not limit the Antalya Diplomacy Forum to the confines of the concept of diplomatic engagement.
He views it as a platform for in-depth discussions on the direction of the world, the values that can unite humanity, and the new areas of interaction that may emerge.
Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said that diplomacy today is no longer just a forum for negotiating issues, disputes, and interests, but for discussing the principles that will shape humanity’s shared future.
“Five years ago, we set the goal of creating a global platform to assess the progress of diplomacy. Today, we see that the Antalya Diplomacy Forum has become a shared platform for global wisdom, awareness, and, above all, hope for the future.”
