Angolan Foreign Minister highlights economic impact of Lobito Corridor

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Luanda, Angola – Angola’s Foreign Minister, Téte António, has underscored the strategic importance of the Lobito Corridor in boosting the country’s economy and enhancing regional integration across Africa. Speaking to the Voice of America (VOA) on Saturday, Mr. António highlighted the corridor’s role in linking Lobito Port to eastern Angola and key markets in Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), positioning it as a vital driver of economic growth and a cornerstone of Africa’s physical and economic integration.

The minister emphasised that the project aligns with the African Union’s (AU) sustainable development and regional integration agenda, contributing to the connectivity of infrastructure and fostering intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

He also lauded Angola’s efforts in conflict mediation, particularly President João Lourenço’s leadership in fostering dialogue between Rwanda and the DRC, as well as his role as the AU-designated Champion for Peace and Reconciliation in Africa.

Mr. António further addressed Angola’s preparations to assume the African Union presidency in 2025, pledging the nation’s commitment to advancing key priorities, including food security, climate change mitigation, and the consolidation of peace and governance across the continent. He also highlighted Angola’s active involvement in resolving ongoing crises, such as the conflict in Sudan, where the country has been advocating for dialogue and regional stability.