Angola and France have taken a significant step forward in their bilateral relations, signing contracts and investments worth over €430 million during President João Lourenço’s state visit to Paris on 16 January 2025.
Hosted by French President Emmanuel Macron, the visit underscored the shared commitment to deepening economic and geopolitical cooperation, with agreements spanning agriculture, health, sports, internal security, the environment, and higher education. President Lourenço highlighted the importance of these agreements in boosting bilateral collaboration and fostering development across multiple sectors.
France’s role as Angola’s largest foreign investor, with €18 billion primarily focused on the oil sector, was further solidified during the visit. The agreements also marked a pivot toward diversifying economic cooperation, with a focus on agriculture, including irrigation and the revitalisation of Angola’s coffee industry. Beyond economics, cultural and linguistic ties were emphasised, with Angola’s recent observer status in the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie symbolising its growing engagement with the Francophone world.
The leaders also discussed regional infrastructure, particularly the Lobito Corridor—a critical rail and road project connecting Angola to neighbouring countries. President Macron acknowledged the importance of this project for regional integration and economic growth, signalling France’s support for its development. Additionally, both nations pledged to enhance their collaboration in combating illegal migration and terrorism, alongside expanding research partnerships, student mobility, and French language education in Angola.
This state visit reflects France’s strategic effort to deepen its ties with Lusophone and Anglophone African nations amidst shifting global dynamics and growing competition from China and Russia. By reinforcing its partnerships with countries like Angola, France aims to diversify its influence across Africa, positioning itself as a key player in fostering development and addressing regional challenges.
Further Africa
