DILI, 18 February 2025 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta extended warm congratulations to João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola, on his recent election as Chairman of the African Union (AU).
President Lourenço assumed the rotating chairmanship of the AU during the 38th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on February 15, 2025.
Lourençe succeeds President Mohamed Ould Cheikh Ghazouani of Mauritania, who served as chair throughout 2024.
In his official letter of congratulations to President Lourenço, dated February 17, 2025, President Ramos-Horta noted that this appointment recognizes President Lourenço’s “dedication and firm commitment to the progress of Angola and the African continent.”
President Horta also commended President Lourenço’s acceptance speech, which outlined a clear vision for promoting unity, resolving conflicts, and addressing global challenges affecting the region.
The Head of State emphasized that Timor-Leste shares fundamental values with Angola and the African Union, stating: “We trust that your leadership will continue to strengthen regional and international cooperation, promoting peace, stability and sustainable development.”
The 38th AU Summit, held from February 15-16, 2025, adopted the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations” for the year 2025.
In his role as the new AU Chairperson, President Lourenço has pledged to focus on ending conflicts in Africa, addressing unconstitutional changes of government, combating terrorism, and tackling challenges related to climate change and public health threats.
President Ramos-Horta reiterated Timor-Leste’s commitment to deepening dialogue and partnership with the African Union for the mutual benefit of their peoples.
President Lourenço is set to visit Timor-Leste from March 9 to 11, where he will meet with Timorese leaders, including his Timorese counterpart Jose Ramos Horta to discuss bilateral cooperation of the two countries in various areas.
Journalist: Camilio de Sousa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
