Portuguese PM's 3-Day Angola Trip: Business Deals, Infrastructure Projects & More

Portuguese PM's Busy Angola Agenda: From Business Deals to Infrastructure Projects

Portuguese Prime Minister Luís Montenegro is embarking on a three-day official visit to Angola, his most significant trip since assuming office. This visit signifies the strengthening of bilateral relations between the two countries.

Here are the key highlights of Montenegro's agenda:

Day 1: Diplomacy & Partnerships

• Meeting with President João Lourenço: The centerpiece of the first day will be a meeting with Angolan President João Lourenço. Discussions will likely focus on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
• Signing of Agreements: Several legal instruments, which are yet to be disclosed, will be signed during the visit. This reflects the commitment to solidify the partnership between Portugal and Angola.
• Focus on Education: Montenegro will visit the Portuguese School in Luanda. This highlights the importance of educational exchange and cooperation between the two countries.
• Cultural Immersion: A visit to the 16th-century Fortaleza de São Miguel, now a museum, will provide a glimpse into the shared history and cultural heritage of Portugal and Angola.

Day 2: Economic Focus

• Business Visits: Montenegro will visit two companies: Powergol, a Braga-based energy and electrical equipment company, and Refriango, a leading Angolan beverage producer. These visits underscore the importance of economic cooperation and investment.
• Focus on the Agro-Food Sector: A business forum dedicated to the agro-food sector will be held, highlighting the potential for growth in this area.
• FILDA Expo: Montenegro will visit Portugal's pavilion and various stalls of Portuguese and Angolan companies at the Luanda International Fair (FILDA), showcasing the diverse economic ties.

Day 3: Infrastructure and Development

• Lobito Corridor Project: The visit to Benguela province will focus on the Lobito Corridor project, a crucial infrastructure development project for Angola. The corridor aims to connect Benguela, Huambo, Bié, and Moxico provinces, promoting faster and more competitive exports of cobalt, copper, and other minerals from Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Meeting with Local Officials: Montenegro will meet with the Governor of Benguela province, Luís Manuel da Fonseca Nunes, and visit the future premises of the Portuguese Consulate General.
• Energy and Port Infrastructure: Visits to the Biópio Solar Power Plant, the largest solar photovoltaic plant in Angola, and the Lobito port will highlight the country's commitment to sustainable development and efficient infrastructure.
• Lobito Atlantic Railway (LAR): The visit to the LAR, a consortium operating the Benguela Railway, emphasizes the role of private investment in Angola's infrastructure development.

This three-day visit is expected to solidify the relationship between Portugal and Angola, with a focus on economic cooperation, infrastructure development, and cultural exchange.