Since President João Lourenço took office in Angola seven years ago, he has actively sought to reform the country’s foreign policy and deepen its partnership with the United States. Next week marks a historic occasion as President Biden prepares to become the first sitting U.S. president to visit Angola, a country rich in oil along the Atlantic coast.
Angola's President Eyes U.S. Ties Amid Trump’s Return

Angola's President Eyes U.S. Ties Amid Trump’s Return
João Lourenço emphasizes stronger relations with the U.S. as he navigates political shifts and anticipates Trump's leadership in Angola.
The visit highlights Biden’s initiative to enhance investment in Angola, focusing on the Lobito Corridor, an extensive railway project aimed at transporting essential minerals for clean energy. U.S. officials are touting this project as a means to not only boost Angola’s economy but also to diminish China's significant influence in the region, given China's longstanding investments in the country.
In a conversation at the presidential palace in Luanda, Lourenço expressed his anticipations for Biden's visit and considered what it would mean for U.S.-Angola relations should President-elect Donald Trump take office next year.
When asked about his administration's efforts to solidify U.S. ties, Lourenço articulated a clear goal: “We want to foster U.S. investment in Angola while exploring the U.S. market for Angolan exports. Strengthened relations are fundamental for our economic development.”
As Angola forges ahead with its aspirations, the political landscape continues to evolve, raising questions about future collaborations and foreign investments under potential shifts in U.S. leadership.
In a conversation at the presidential palace in Luanda, Lourenço expressed his anticipations for Biden's visit and considered what it would mean for U.S.-Angola relations should President-elect Donald Trump take office next year.
When asked about his administration's efforts to solidify U.S. ties, Lourenço articulated a clear goal: “We want to foster U.S. investment in Angola while exploring the U.S. market for Angolan exports. Strengthened relations are fundamental for our economic development.”
As Angola forges ahead with its aspirations, the political landscape continues to evolve, raising questions about future collaborations and foreign investments under potential shifts in U.S. leadership.