Biden Welcomes Angola’s President in Bid to Enhance Africa Relations

Biden Hosts Angola’s President Amid U.S. Investment in Africa

President Biden met with President João Lourenço of Angola to enhance U.S.-Africa relations and discuss a $1 billion U.S.-backed infrastructure project in Angola. The initiative is part of Biden’s commitment made at the last U.S.-Africa Leaders Summit.

The administration is grappling with questions about U.S. engagement in Africa, as a long-awaited visit by Biden remains uncertain. However, the meeting underlines the United States’ intent to compete with countries like Russia and China for influence on the continent with the fastest-growing, youngest population globally.

Historic U.S. Investment in Africa’s Infrastructure

Biden highlighted Angola as an evidence of his administration’s investment in Africa. The U.S. is funding a $1 billion rail project, known as the Lobito Corridor, connecting Angola with mineral-rich Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. This marks the “biggest U.S. rail investment in Africa ever,” according to Biden.

Another $1 billion is being invested in various African projects, including solar energy. “The partnership between Angola and America is more important and impactful,” Biden said.

Global Competitions and U.S. Commitment

Meanwhile, global competitors, like China’s President Xi Jinping and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, have also heightened their engagement with Africa. Despite this, the U.S. maintains that its African interest is not motivated by competition.

Symbolic Importance of U.S.-Africa Relations

Although various high-ranking U.S officials, such as Vice President Kamala Harris and Defense Secretary Lloyd J. Austin III, have visited the continent, some experts argue that delivering on the President’s promise holds significant symbolic importance.