UN Under-Secretary-General Applauds Angola’s Contribution to Peacekeeping Efforts

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Luanda – Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN) for Peacekeeping Operations, praised Angola’s diplomatic capabilities in ensuring regional stability during his visit to Luanda on Sunday. After meeting with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Teté António, Lacroix expressed his recognition of Angola’s potential to contribute even more to UN peacekeeping operations, citing the country’s strong relationship with the organization, particularly in the field of peacekeeping.

Discussions between Lacroix and António revolved around joint efforts to promote peace and security in the Great Lakes region and Central Africa. The UN diplomat commended Angola’s leadership role in the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (CIRGL) and its recognition as the Champion of Peace in Africa, bestowed upon President João Lourenço.

Minister António highlighted the room for further cooperation between Angola and the UN, aligning with the country’s responsibilities in regional initiatives. Notably, Angola has played a crucial role in pacifying the eastern region of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and in normalizing relations between the DRC and neighboring Rwanda, with the UN serving as a key partner in these efforts.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to assess the situation in the Central African Republic (CAR) and Sudan. Minister António mentioned the initiative to bring together the conflicting parties in these countries, showcasing Angola’s commitment to fostering peace and stability.

Accompanying Lacroix and António at the meeting were Bintou Keita, the head of the UN mission in the DRC, and Zahari Virani, the resident coordinator of the United Nations System in Angola.

The United Nations, established in October 1945, is an intergovernmental organization dedicated to promoting international peace and security, as well as fostering friendly relations among nations. Angola’s growing involvement and contributions to UN peacekeeping operations underline its commitment to regional stability and peacebuilding efforts.