During a visit to the Marginal da Corimba construction works in Luanda, where he is attending the 7th African Union-European Union Summit, Montenegro emphasized the deepening relationship between Portugal and Angola. This marks the fourth bilateral meeting with the Angolan government within this period, which he describes as increasingly intense and productive.
The agenda for the prime minister on Monday, the opening day of the two-day summit between the two blocs, includes a meeting at the Presidential Palace with Angolan President João Lourenço.
Montenegro highlighted that during this period, 23 cooperation instruments have been signed, and the initial 2 billion euro credit line has been expanded by an additional 1.25 billion euros. This expansion has enabled many Portuguese companies to work directly in Angola alongside the Angolan administration for the benefit of the community.
He underscored that Portuguese companies have been pivotal in various infrastructure projects essential for the country’s development, extending their operations beyond public works into sectors such as tourism, agriculture, health, and education.
Montenegro also expressed the need for faster development and strengthening of professional training mechanisms, aimed at qualifying personnel both in Angola and Portugal, thereby contributing to the development of both countries.
The prime minister noted that 250 Portuguese companies have a permanent presence in Angola and emphasized the importance of their economic relationship, which spans multiple sectors, resulting in employment opportunities and improvements for the population.
The executive leader stated that besides participating in the summit, he visited local sites to assess the impact of cooperation, today visiting a school built in 1972 that is being rehabilitated to accommodate 6,000 students, as well as the new Luanda waterfront.
He identified education as a fundamental axis of cooperation, benefiting both countries, not only preparing Angolans seeking opportunities in Portugal but also equipping Angola with a skilled workforce ready for integration into companies operating there.
Business leaders have emphasized the need for more qualified professionals, and Montenegro showed readiness to establish training academies, viewing them as crucial to competition.
He concluded with words of optimism, enthusiasm, and a sense of challenge, stating: “There is much to be done; we have not yet accomplished all we want, and you can count on the Government of Portugal.”
