Luanda: The Japanese ambassador to Angola, Hiroaki Sano, praised on Wednesday in Luanda, the progress registered by the Southern African country in recent years in the economic and social sectors, resulting from the government’s policies for the well-being of the population. According to Angola Press News Agency, speaking at the celebration of Japan’s National Day on February 23 and the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, the Japanese diplomat noted Angola’s significant development in recent years. “Angola has improved a lot. Dreams are becoming reality, congratulations. Japan feels honored to contribute to the country’s development, therefore we intend an increasingly close relationship,” the diplomat said. He further mentioned Japan’s interest in strengthening cooperation in cultural and sports sectors, among other areas. Domingos Vieira Lopes, Secretary of State for International Cooperation and Angolan Communities, emphasized that Angola and Japan enj oy privileged relations, focusing on multifaceted cooperation. “Almost 50 years later, Angola and Japan maintain privileged relations and are part of the context of national reconstruction, economic diversification, infrastructure, know-how and training of personnel, also being multilateral through TICAD,” he stated. Lopes highlighted plans to elevate cooperation to new levels, with projects like the transmission line in Angola’s southern region to improve electrification and the transition to digital terrestrial television. The Angolan official acknowledged the role of the Japanese Emperor and his family in maintaining Japan’s proximity to its people, within constitutional parameters. He also congratulated Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on her re-election, expressing Angola’s intent to strengthen their relations further. Angolan president Joo Lourenço praised the Japanese Prime Minister’s electoral victory, viewing it as a reflection of the people’s confidence in her leadership and policies to conso lidate Japan’s position as a global power. The event was attended by members of the National Assembly, government officials, representatives of the diplomatic corps, and other guests. Relations between Angola and Japan trace back to September 1976, with both nations diligently working to enhance cooperation across various sectors.
