Luanda - Angola's Foreign Affairs Minister, Téte António, and the French Ambassador to Angola, Sophie Aubert, on Thursday discussed issues related to the consolidation and expansion of diplomatic relations between the two nations, especially the political and economic partnership.
According to a press release sent to ANGOP, the two sides discussed the promotion of cultural initiatives to strengthen cooperation between them.
The conversation between the two diplomats also focused on promoting the exchange of visits at the highest level and strengthening the mechanisms for political consultations between the two countries.
Ambassador Aubert reiterated her country's willingness to contribute to the implementation of high-impact projects in the fields of infrastructure, education and technological innovation.
The diplomat stressed France's intention to promote an agenda of closer cooperation with Angola, with a view to harnessing the potential of each country to face global challenges, with an approach geared towards economic, social and sustainable development.
Relations between Angola and France date back to 1982, when the first bilateral cooperation agreement was signed, laying the foundations for a strategic partnership that has grown over the years.
Since the official visit of the French President Emmanuel Macron to Angola in March 2023, there have been frequent contacts at the highest level aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation between the two countries.
In the economic sphere, France has established itself as one of the main investors in Angola, with a presence in the energy, infrastructure, transport and agriculture sectors.
French companies such as TotalEnergies play a key role in the exploration and production of oil and natural gas in Angola.
The French Development Agency (AFD) has financed several projects in Angola to help diversify the economy and support the agricultural sector.
The presence of institutions such as the French Alliances and international schools such as the "Lycée Français de Luanda" has promoted cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries.
The creation of a Franco-Angolan Chamber of Commerce has been analyzed as a measure to further strengthen economic relations and facilitate bilateral trade.
Angolan and French governments’ commitment to deepen and broaden this strategic partnership is evident, with positive prospects for the future.
France has stated that it sees Angola as a strategic partner in sub-Saharan Africa, particularly given its economic and political importance in the region.ART/TED/AMP
