The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has strengthened its diplomatic and economic presence in Africa by signing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Angola. The signing took place during President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan’s state visit to Luanda.
Sheikh Mohamed held talks with Angolan President João Manuel Lourenço, where both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to deeper bilateral cooperation. President Lourenço described the visit as historic, noting that the agreement marks a new chapter in Angola’s relationship with the Gulf nation.
He praised the UAE for its growing role in Africa’s development, highlighting how Emirati companies have contributed to Angola’s economic growth through strategic investments.
In his remarks, Sheikh Mohamed congratulated Angola on its 50th independence anniversary and expressed optimism about its future progress. He emphasized that the UAE remains committed to expanding partnerships in energy, agriculture, food security, logistics, and technology.
“Relations between our two countries continue to deepen, particularly in investment and development. The UAE is keen to consolidate these gains in ways that advance the aspirations of both nations,” Sheikh Mohamed said.
The discussions also covered regional and global issues, with both leaders stressing the importance of collective efforts to promote peace, reconciliation, and stability. Sheikh Mohamed commended Angola’s leadership of the African Union and expressed confidence in its role in advancing continental peace and unity.
During the visit, several agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were signed, covering renewable energy, agriculture, logistics, and other critical sectors. The initiatives are expected to create opportunities for youth, boost trade, and enhance economic resilience.
The UAE delegation included senior officials such as H.H. Lt. General Sheikh Saif bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Interior; H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs; and Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Adviser to the UAE President.
Several Angolan ministers and government officials were also present at the talks, underscoring the importance of the new partnership.