As a testament to the enduring spirit of mutual cooperation, President Joao Lourenco of Angola embarks on a significant four-day visit to China at the invitation of President Xi Jinping. This marks Lourenco's second trip to China since taking office in 2017, highlighting Angola's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties.
The Sino-Angolan partnership is deeply rooted in a shared history of anti-imperial and anti-colonial struggles. This foundation of mutual trust and respect has fostered solidarity between the two nations, driving shared goals of economic revitalization and modernization. Over the past four decades, this partnership has been characterized by win-win cooperation and synergy.
Since establishing diplomatic relations in January 1983, China and Angola have transformed their bilateral ties through various phases. Angola's post-civil war reconstruction saw significant Chinese assistance, playing a pivotal role in shaping the robust relationship seen today.
Under Portuguese colonial rule, Angola gained independence in 1975 but soon faced a prolonged civil war that devastated its economy and perpetuated poverty. Post-war, Angola sought financial support to address its heavy debt burden and leverage its natural resources for economic development. Despite appeals to Western nations, Angola's requests for assistance remained unmet, paving the way for China's generous support.
China's commitment has seen Angola receive $45 billion in financing, addressing critical challenges. These funds have been strategically invested to enhance state capacity to utilize abundant natural resources, particularly oil, driving economic growth. As a result, oil production surged by 147 percent within a decade from 2000, translating into GDP growth and economic recovery.
Additionally, significant investments have been made in Angola's socio-economic development, improving transportation infrastructure, power production, housing, education, and healthcare. Chinese companies have played a key role in building 2,800 kilometers of railways, 20,000 kilometers of roads, over 100,000 housing units, more than 100 schools, and over 50 hospitals, significantly enhancing the nation's infrastructure and human capital.
Reference(s):
Lourenco's China visit will improve the quality of Sino-Angolan ties
cgtn.com
