The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, visited Angola and engaged President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço on peace and security matters, focusing on regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Somalia. They emphasized infrastructure development as essential for economic transformation and reinforced their commitment to the African Peace and Security Architecture and the “Silencing the Guns” initiative.
The Chairperson of the African Union Commission, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf, conducted an official visit to Angola from March 18 to 19, 2025. During this visit, he engaged in discussions with H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, the President of Angola and current Chairperson of the African Union, focusing on peace and security issues within Africa.
Both leaders deliberated on pressing peace and security matters in Africa, emphasizing the Democratic Republic of Congo, South Sudan, and Somalia. H.E. Youssouf praised President Lourenço for his leadership and they reaffirmed their dedication to the Luanda process, acknowledging the intricate challenges present in these regions and the necessity for ongoing African Union involvement in stabilization efforts.
They stressed the importance of reinforcing the African Peace and Security Architecture, enhancing the roles of Regional Economic Communities, and strengthening the Peace and Security Council to effectively address emerging threats. Advancing the “Silencing the Guns” agenda was highlighted as crucial for achieving long-lasting peace and stability on the continent.
Furthermore, they articulated a shared vision for the African Union, with a significant emphasis on infrastructure development as vital for regional integration and economic transformation. They expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming US-Africa Business Forum in June 2025 and the October 2025 Summit on Mobilizing Resources for Infrastructure Development as key opportunities for attracting investments and promoting Africa’s developmental goals.
During his visit, H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf also met with the diplomatic community in Luanda, including H.E. Mr. Téte António, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. He articulated the Commission’s strategic priorities and reiterated the African Union’s commitment to fostering peace, security, and development across Africa. Youssouf emphasized the importance of collaboration with international partners to collectively enhance sustainable development goals.
The meeting between H.E. Mahmoud Ali Youssouf and H.E. João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço focused primarily on pivotal issues regarding peace and security in Africa, emphasizing the need for ongoing engagement and commitment to strategic goals. Infrastructure development and economic transformation were underscored as essential components of the African Union’s agenda, with significant upcoming forums aimed at fostering investment and cooperation. Together, they reiterated their dedication to advancing the continent’s peace and security frameworks.
Original Source: au.int
