In a historic visit marking 40 years of diplomatic ties, the Angolan President condemns terrorism and expresses grief over the Pahalgam massacre.
New Delhi, May 4:
President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday warmly received Angolan President Joao Manuel Goncalves Lourenco at Rashtrapati Bhavan, hailing his visit as a historic moment in Indo-Angolan relations. This marks the first high-level visit from Angola to India in over four decades, coinciding with the 40th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations between the two nations.
In her welcome address, President Murmu expressed sincere gratitude to President Lourenco for Angola’s swift condemnation of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, that claimed 26 lives, including one Nepali citizen.
“Global Unity Needed to Defeat Terrorism” – President Murmu
“This horrific terrorist attack has once again shown the need for the international community to take concrete steps to prevent terrorism and hold its supporters accountable,” President Murmu said, while thanking President Lourenco for Angola’s strong expression of solidarity.
She added, “We are grateful to Angola for standing with India during this tragic time. Your support is a reflection of the shared values and mutual respect between our two nations.”
Angola Reiterates Firm Stance Against Terrorism
President Lourenco, who is on his first State visit to India, had earlier condemned the Pahalgam terror attack, describing it as a “barbaric act of terrorism.” He emphasized Angola’s firm opposition to terrorism in all forms.
“Angola was one of the first countries to respond after the tragic attack in Kashmir. We conveyed our sorrow to the Indian people and condemned this heinous act. Angola denounces all forms of terrorism, regardless of where it occurs,” Lourenco said.
India Acknowledges Angola’s Role in African Peace Efforts
President Murmu also praised Angola’s efforts in promoting peace and mediation in conflict-ridden regions of Africa.
“We appreciate your role in mediating ongoing conflicts in the Middle and West Africa region. India supports Angola’s continued commitment to peace and stability across the African continent,” she noted.
This State visit is expected to further strengthen economic, strategic, and cultural ties between India and Angola, and build on shared values of democracy, multilateralism, and peace.