Angola, Zambia Strengthen Defence and Trade Cooperation, Advance Lobito Corridor and Border Infrastructure Plans
The Republic of Angola has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Zambia, with a focus on regional stability, good neighbourliness, and expanded strategic cooperation.
The position was outlined during the official opening of the Ministerial Meeting of the 34th Angola–Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security held in Luanda.
Angola’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Téte António, said Angola’s foreign policy remains anchored in dialogue, mutual respect, and collaboration with neighbouring states.
He described the relationship between Angola and Zambia as a key pillar of regional peace and security, stressing the importance of continued joint military exercises to enhance coordination and improve responses to cross-border and transnational threats.
António further called for stronger cooperation in addressing organised crime, irregular migration, climate-related security challenges, and emerging cybersecurity risks.
He emphasized the need for coordinated frameworks and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen institutional responses.
He also highlighted the importance of engaging border communities during security operations to ensure civilian protection and build trust between residents and security institutions.
Infrastructure and Regional Integration Priorities
Angola’s Minister of National Defence, Former Combatants and Veterans of the Fatherland, Luís Gonçalves Amaral, underscored the importance of infrastructure development in advancing economic integration between the two countries.
He noted that improvements to border facilities, road networks, and energy infrastructure would significantly boost trade and regional connectivity.
He specifically pointed to the upgrading of the Jimbe–Mwinilunga road as a critical project that would enhance cross-border movement and stimulate economic activity.
Zambia Reaffirms Commitment to Cooperation Frameworks
On the Zambian side, Defence Minister Ambrose Lufuma reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to the Joint Permanent Commission and related bilateral agreements aimed at strengthening security cooperation, trade, and sustainable development.
He highlighted Zambia’s strong interest in the accelerated implementation of the Lobito Corridor Project, including the proposed railway and pipeline linking Benguela in Angola to Lusaka.
He described the initiative as a transformative regional infrastructure project capable of improving trade efficiency and economic integration across Southern Africa.
Lufuma also commended Angola’s efforts in promoting regional peace and strengthening intra-African trade within the Southern African Development Community framework.
Shared Vision for Regional Stability
The meeting concluded with both countries reaffirming their shared commitment to a more secure, integrated, and economically connected Southern Africa, with emphasis on deepening defence cooperation and accelerating regional infrastructure development.
