16 Jun 2024

President Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi has commended  Angola’s contribution to peace in SADC region.

Welcoming the SADC chairperson and President of Angola, Mr João Lourenço who had paid him a courtesy call on Friday following his visit to the SADC secretariat, President Masisi highlighted the pivotal role played by Angola in the efforts to restore peace in the Southern African Development Community (SADC). 

He expressed his admiration for Angola’s consistent provision of air service support, which has significantly contributed to the peace restoration initiatives in the region.

Moreover, President Masisi commended Angola for its valuable contributions in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and expressed his satisfaction with the operational efficiency of SADC.

He emphasised the crucial role played by the regional organisation in the maintenance of peace across member states, citing the successful peace-building efforts in Mozambique’s Cabo Delgado region.

During the discussion, it was reaffirmed that both countries were committed to strengthening their bilateral relations through the Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JPCC). 

President Masisi recalled the recent state visit by President Lourenço and conveyed his intention to reciprocate the gesture in the near future. 

The two leaders underscored the mutual focus on enhancing cooperation in various sectors including agriculture, tourism, healthcare through vaccine provisions, as well as fostering agreements in energy, tourism, and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) services.

President Masisi emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts among nations to ensure the freedom and liberation of Africa. He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the government and people of Malawi following the tragic plane crash that resulted in the passing of Vice President Dr Saulos Chilima.

President Lourenco informed his Botswana counterpart that his visit to the SADC secretariat was productive, and that he was assured that regional integration would be achieved.

He, however, said the region was faced with financial constraints. He said countries such as the DRC and Mozambique were capable of lifting the region from poverty but were unfortunately engulfed in conflict and in need of financial support to restore order.

However, he said SADC was determined to overcome challenges and that there were positive developments in Mozambique’s Carbo Delgado.

 He said the region must avail time and resources to peace and stability. ENDS