Meeting Dispatch: African Union Commission Chairperson Visits Angola

H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf concluded a visit to Angola, meeting with H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço to discuss Africa’s peace and security priorities. Key topics included conflicts in Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia, and the importance of regional integration and infrastructure development. They emphasized collaboration for sustainable peace and development, aligning with Agenda 2063.

The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, recently concluded an official visit to Angola from March 18 to 19, 2025. During this visit, he engaged with H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the President of Angola and current Chairperson of the African Union, who is recognized as a prominent advocate for peace and security in Africa.

Both leaders deliberated on critical issues pertaining to Africa’s peace and security, particularly emphasizing the situations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia. Chairperson Youssouf praised President Lourenço for his impressive leadership, and they reiterated their support for the Luanda process aimed at conflict resolution.

They acknowledged the complex challenges faced in these regions and underscored the importance of the African Union’s sustained involvement to assist with stabilization efforts and foster inclusive political processes that contribute to lasting peace and the development of national institutions.

The meeting further stressed strengthening the African Peace and Security Architecture, enhancing the roles of Regional Economic Communities, and reinforcing the African Union Peace and Security Council to effectively address emerging threats. Additionally, advancing the “Silencing the Guns” initiative was highlighted as pivotal for achieving sustainable peace across the continent.

Moreover, the leaders shared their vision for the African Union, emphasizing that infrastructure development is essential for regional integration and economic transformation, aligning with the goals of Agenda 2063. They acknowledged the significance of the upcoming US-Africa Business Forum in June 2025 and the Summit on Mobilizing Resources for Infrastructure Development in October 2025 as vital opportunities to attract investment for Africa’s developmental goals.

During his visit, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also met with the diplomatic community in Luanda, accompanied by H.E. Mr. Téte António, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola. He introduced his strategic priorities for the Commission, reaffirming the AU’s commitment to peace, security, and development across the African continent.

The Chairperson reaffirmed the commitment of the African Union to collaborate with international partners to advance the Union’s strategic objectives to promote peace, security, and sustainable development throughout Africa.

In conclusion, the meeting between H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and President H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço underscored the African Union’s commitment to addressing peace and security challenges in Africa. Their discussions highlighted the importance of ongoing engagement in conflict resolution, the strengthening of regional mechanisms for security, and the significance of infrastructure development in achieving sustainable economic growth as outlined in Agenda 2063.

Original Source: au.int