The Angolan government official Ottoniel dos Santos argued that collaboration between Angola and Portugal must be directed towards productive investment, encouraging Portuguese companies to view Angola not only as a consumer market but also as a base for production, value generation, and access to other African markets.
Ottoniel dos Santos also stressed that the economic ties between the two countries cannot be based solely on historical affinity or shared language. While recognizing these advantages as important, he emphasized that they do not replace the need for competitiveness, innovation, financial solidity, and management excellence.
The official pointed out that while friendship helps bring nations closer, it is mutual trust, demonstrated competence, and concrete results that ensure the longevity of bilateral relations.
During his speech at the opening of the IX Business Networking Angola-Portugal, held at the Epic Sana Hotel in Luanda, just before the 41st Luanda International Fair (FILDA), the State Secretary requested that the new phase of cooperation prioritize partnerships that establish productive capacity within Angola, promote the development of national cadres, and support local suppliers.
Several areas of opportunity were highlighted, including agriculture, agro-industry, fishing, manufacturing industry, renewable energy, tourism, health, logistics, and financial services. Furthermore, he advocated for creating conditions that allow more Angolan companies to access the European market through Portugal, establishing a mutually beneficial trade relationship.
Ottoniel dos Santos reinforced Angola's commitment to economic diversification, strengthening the private sector, and reducing dependence on oil revenues. This effort, however, requires capital injection, technology, workforce qualification, and a more favorable economic environment.
The official admitted, however, that entrepreneurs still face significant obstacles, such as difficulties in accessing financing, high operating costs, bureaucratic hurdles, logistical problems, foreign exchange shortages, and lack of predictability in certain procedures. He insisted that these concerns must be heard and not merely responded to with declarations of intent.
Special focus was given to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are responsible for a considerable share of employment but face increased barriers in accessing finance, technology, and markets.
The IX Business Networking Angola-Portugal was organized by the Portugal-Angola Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCIPA), in collaboration with the Portuguese Business Association (AEP) and the Portuguese Agency for Investment and Foreign Trade (AICEP). The event took place in preparation for FILDA, considered the largest international event in Angola, which takes place from Tuesday to Saturday in the Luanda-Bengo Special Economic Zone.
The President of Angola sent a message to his counterpart, expressing 'the warmest congratulations'. João Lourenço stated that Angola and Sao Tome and Principe share 'a history of brotherhood that spans generations'.
These common bonds are based on the kinship between the two peoples and the solidarity demonstrated throughout the processes of national liberation and the establishment of both states.
The Angolan President also emphasized the need to continue, 'with renewed commitment', the activation and strengthening of bilateral relations between the two nations for the creation of a 'future of common development'.
It is worth noting that Sao Tome and Principe celebrates its independence from Portugal on July 12, which was achieved in 1975.
