The discussions, held during Lourenço’s first official visit to Egypt, aimed to strengthen long-standing relations between the two nations and explore new areas of cooperation within the African Union (AU) framework.

El Sisi expressed Egypt’s readiness to work closely with Angola in areas such as security, healthcare, agriculture, tourism, energy, and diplomacy. The two leaders also touched on shared concerns around governance, corruption, and continental peace efforts.

According to political analyst José Gama, the visit was significant both diplomatically and strategically. “It’s Lourenço’s first trip to Egypt since taking office, and it comes at a time when Angola is seeking to diversify its economy and form stronger ties with other African states,” Gama said in an interview.

“Egypt, with its advanced military and agricultural sectors, is a natural partner, especially now, as Angola looks to reduce its dependence on oil and build new alliances beyond its historical ties to Russia,” he added.

The leaders signed a memorandum of understanding covering cooperation in telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, infrastructure, and mutual investment. There is already an Egyptian business presence in Angola, particularly in irrigation and agriculture, and officials hope this agreement will expand those partnerships.

El Sisi highlighted the deep-rooted historical relationship between Egypt and Angola, which dates back to 1975. Despite modest trade levels, reportedly between $30 million and $40 million annually, there is growing interest in enhancing economic ties.

With Lourenço currently serving as Chairperson of the AU, his meeting with El Sisi also touched on the need for institutional reform within the AU. Gama noted that Angola is expected to push for progress on key initiatives like the African Continental Free Trade Area, and play a larger role in regional mediation efforts, such as in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

A follow-up meeting between officials from both countries is expected later this year, likely at the ministerial level, to build on the agreements reached in Cairo.

--ChannelAfrica--