The appointment recognizes the “dedication and firm commitment of President João Lourenço to the progress of Angola and the African continent”, said José Ramos-Horta, in a statement released to the press, citing the official letter he sent to the head of state on Monday.
Angola assumed the rotating presidency of the African Union on Saturday during the 38th summit of heads of state and government, which took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
According to the Timorese statement, the Nobel Peace Prize winner also praised João Lourenço's speech, which “outlined a clear vision for promoting unity, resolving conflicts and addressing global challenges affecting the region.”
“We trust that your leadership will continue to strengthen regional and international cooperation, promote peace, stability and sustainable development,” added the President of Timor-Leste.
It is the first time that Angola assumes the presidency of the organization of African states.
The president of Angola is scheduled to make an official trip to East Timor between March 9 and 11 to strengthen bilateral cooperation, the head of Timorese diplomacy, Bendito Freitas, said on Monday.
