Summary
Angolan President João Lourenço is making an official visit to France in November to strengthen political and economic relations with Paris. Key agenda items include discussions with Emmanuel Macron on regional stability, economic partnerships with French companies like Airbus and Suez, and participation in an economic forum organized by MEDEF. This diplomatic effort seeks to position Angola as a strategic player in Southern Africa while also enhancing cultural cooperation with France through Angola’s recent observer status in the International Organization of La Francophonie.
Angolan President João Lourenço visits France in early November to fortify ties with France, addressing topics of political and economic cooperation.
Strengthening Franco-Angolan Relations
Angolan President João Lourenço will make an official visit to France in early November to reinforce bilateral relations with Paris. This trip marks his second official visit, coming five years after his first in 2018, and follows French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Angola last year. Lourenço, who took office in 2017 succeeding José Eduardo dos Santos, seeks to modernize Angola’s economy, diversify its alliances, and engage in broader international cooperation.
A Meeting Focused on Regional Stability and Security
On November 6, Lourenço will meet with Emmanuel Macron to discuss critical regional security and stability topics. Set to assume the rotating presidency of the African Union (AU) in 2025, Lourenço has acted as a mediator in peace talks between the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Rwanda since 2022, a process strongly supported by France. The war in the DRC, tensions in Sudan, and counter-terrorism efforts in West Africa are high-priority issues that both heads of state plan to address. Lourenço’s mediating role strengthens Angola’s position as a stabilizing force in Central Africa.
An Economic Forum Hosted by MEDEF International
On November 7, Lourenço will attend an economic forum hosted by MEDEF International, accompanied by several Angolan ministers. This forum, bringing together business leaders from both countries, is designed to attract foreign investment into key sectors such as agriculture and infrastructure. The Lobito Corridor, an ambitious project linking Angola, Zambia, and the DRC, is a strategic opportunity for Angola to position itself as a major logistics player. France, through the European “Global Gateway” strategy, aims to support this initiative and increase its presence in Angola, working alongside the United States and China, who are also involved in regional investments.
Opportunities for Airbus and Suez in Angola
French companies like Airbus and Suez are looking to finalize strategic partnerships during this visit. Airbus is eyeing funding for the Angeo-1 project, an observational satellite set to elevate Angola among Africa’s space leaders. Signed in 2018 and renewed in 2023, this project remains one of Lourenço’s ambitious technological goals. Additionally, Suez continues its partnership with the Angolan government to improve potable water infrastructure in Luanda, with several water treatment plants under construction to meet the capital’s growing water needs.
Cultural Expansion with OIF Membership
On the cultural front, France aims to strengthen its influence in Angola through the country’s recent observer membership in the International Organization of La Francophonie (OIF). This membership opens new opportunities for linguistic and cultural cooperation, encouraging educational and cultural exchanges between the two countries. France’s support in this area aims to expand the use of French in Angola and reinforce diplomatic ties.
Regional Implications and Stability Prospects
By strengthening relations with France, Lourenço seeks to position Angola as a leading player in Central and Southern Africa while diversifying its economic and cultural alliances. This closer relationship with France also comes amid heightened rivalry between China and the United States in Africa, with both powers seeking to secure access to critical minerals essential for the energy transition. For Angola, this strengthened cooperation with Paris may generate new economic opportunities and support the country’s development goals.
© O Bulamba / ADR
