Ambassador Téte António Attends 4th Edition of Antalya Diplomacy Forum
Ambassador Téte António Attends 4th Edition of Antalya Diplomacy Forum
His Excellency Ambassador Téte António, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, has traveled to Turkey to participate in the 4th Edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. This year's forum, themed "Recovering Diplomacy in a Fragmented World," brings together world leaders, academics, entrepreneurs and media representatives to discuss pressing global issues, including conflicts, peace, security, poverty and climate change.
His Excellency Ambassador Téte António, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, has traveled to Turkey to participate in the 4th Edition of the Antalya Diplomacy Forum. This year's forum, themed "Recovering Diplomacy in a Fragmented World," brings together world leaders, academics, entrepreneurs and media representatives to discuss pressing global issues, including conflicts, peace, security, poverty and climate change.
Key Highlights of Ambassador António's Participation
Panel Discussion: Ambassador António will speak at the "Effective Mediation: Looking to the Future in Conflict Resolution" panel, alongside notable figures such as Ignazio Cassis, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Swiss Confederation, and Rosemary Dicarlo, UN Undersecretary-General for Political Affairs and Peacekeeping.
Global Dialogue: The forum aims to promote international dialogue and redefine the role of diplomacy in an increasingly polarized world.
Representation: Ambassador António represents Angolan Head of State João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, responding to an invitation from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan
About Ambassador Téte António
A seasoned diplomat with extensive experience in international relations, Ambassador António has held various roles, including:
Secretary of State for External Relations
Representative of the African Union to the United Nations
Diplomatic Adviser to the President of the African Union Commission
Author: Co-authored the book "Angola at the UN Security Council (2003-2004), Experience and Practical Contribution to Conflict Resolution in Africa.”
Antalya Diplomacy Forum
The Antalya Diplomacy Forum (ADF) is an annual gathering of high-level professionals, including politicians, diplomats, academics and opinion leaders. It's hosted by the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs under the auspices of President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan. This initiative by the Turkish government seeks to address global challenges through innovative conflict resolution strategies, mediation and regional cooperation mechanisms. The forum provides a platform for leaders to share insights and work towards a more stable and peaceful world.
The forum focuses on key themes such as
- The Role of Diplomacy: Solving international problems through effective diplomacy
- New Technologies: The impact of emerging technologies on diplomatic practices
- Global and Regional Issues: Addressing pressing concerns with global and regional implications
The 4th edition of ADF, themed "Reclaiming Diplomacy in a Fragmented World," took place from April 11-13, 2025, in Antalya, Türkiye. Previous events featured²:
Panel Discussions: Exploring topics like counter-terrorism, women in diplomacy and climate change
Keynote Speakers: Including heads of state and government officials
Networking Opportunities: Facilitating dialogue among professionals
The forum aims to provide a platform for policy-oriented discussions, fostering innovative solutions to regional and global challenges. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, ADF promotes diplomacy and cooperation in an increasingly complex world.
Yacouba Sissoko: A Cultural Ambassador of African Music
Yacouba Sissoko's contributions to African music and cultural heritage are undeniable. As a cultural ambassador, he continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his captivating performances and dedication to preserving African traditions. Explore more about Sissoko's music on his website: https://yacousiskora.com
Yacouba Sissoko is a master kora player from Mali, West Africa, renowned for his captivating performances that blend traditional African rhythms with modern styles. As a cultural ambassador, Sissoko has been instrumental in promoting African music and heritage globally.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Born in Kita, Mali, Sissoko began learning the kora at age nine from his grandfather. He later attended the National Institute of the Arts in Bamako, where he honed his skills. Sissoko's musical journey has taken him across the globe, collaborating with jazz and pop musicians like Regina Carter, Paul Simon, and Damon Albarn.²
Preserving African Cultural Heritage
Through his music, Sissoko aims to preserve and promote African cultural heritage. His performances often feature traditional West African instruments, such as the kora and balafon, showcasing the rich musical traditions of his homeland.
Impact on the African Diaspora
Sissoko's music has resonated with audiences worldwide, particularly within the African diaspora. His work serves as a bridge between Africa and its diaspora, fostering cultural exchange and appreciation.
Key Achievements
- SIYA Band: Sissoko leads his own band, SIYA, which blends traditional African sounds with modern styles.
- Collaborations: He has collaborated with international artists, introducing African music to new audiences.
- Cultural Exchange: Sissoko's work promotes cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, highlighting the importance of preserving African cultural heritage.
Yacouba Sissoko's contributions to African music and cultural heritage are undeniable. As a cultural ambassador, he continues to inspire audiences worldwide with his captivating performances and dedication to preserving African traditions.
African Cultural Heritage Ambassador of Global African Music
African cultural Heritage Ambassador of African Music
Born in Guinea, West Africa, Mbemba Bangoura began drumming at a very young age. He learned the traditional music and dance styles of his village early in his life, and it has remained the primary focus of his life for over 50 years. By the age of fourteen, he had displayed such a high level of skill and artistry that he was invited to join the nation’s capital city ballet, The Ballet of Conakry. The ballet was a formal training ground for him where he became lead drummer and was recognized as a rising star in the city’s drumming community. After seven years of playing with the city ballet, Mbemba had become a master drummer and was invited to play for Ballet Djoliba, the most widely recognized and respected ballet in the country at that time. There he worked side by side with other master drummers, most notably longtime friend Mamady Keita, with whom he created all of the ballet’s musical arrangements. It was with this troupe that he first traveled to the United States.
Mbemba Bangoura: A Cultural Heritage Ambassador of Global African Music and the African Diaspora
MBEMBA BANGOURA
Mbemba Bangoura is a renowned musician and cultural ambassador who has been instrumental in promoting African music and heritage globally. With a career spanning multiple decades, Mbemba has been a driving force in showcasing the rich musical traditions of West Africa, particularly from Guinea.
Musical Journey and Influences
Mbemba's musical journey began at a young age, influenced by the traditional sounds of his native Guinea. He draws inspiration from the rich cultural heritage of West Africa, blending traditional rhythms with modern styles to create a unique sound.
Wofabe Album
Mbemba's latest album, "Wofabe," is a testament to his dedication to preserving and promoting African cultural heritage through music. The album features a collection of tracks that showcase Mbemba's mastery of traditional Guinean instruments, such as the kora and balafon.
Cultural Significance
Mbemba's music is not only a reflection of his cultural heritage but also a means of sharing African traditions with a global audience. Through his work, he aims to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, highlighting the importance of preserving cultural heritage in the face of globalization.
Impact and Legacy
As a cultural heritage ambassador, Mbemba has had a significant impact on the global music scene. His work has inspired a new generation of musicians and music enthusiasts, ensuring the continued appreciation and preservation of African cultural heritage.
Bridging the African Diaspora
Mbemba's music also serves as a bridge between the African continent and the African diaspora. His work has resonated with audiences worldwide, fostering a sense of connection and community among people of African descent. Mbemba Bangoura's contributions to African music and cultural heritage are undeniable. Through his work, he has promoted cross-cultural understanding and appreciation, ensuring the continued preservation of African traditions. With his latest album, "Wofabe," Mbemba continues to inspire audiences worldwide, solidifying his position as a cultural heritage ambassador of global African music and the African diaspora.
Cultural Diplomacy
The Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently hosted representatives from the African beauty and youth pageant, featuring winners from Angola, Cape Verde, and South Sudan. The meeting, attended by Minister Téte António, focused on cultural diplomacy and social projects.
The Angolan Ministry of Foreign Affairs recently hosted representatives from the African beauty and youth pageant, featuring winners from Angola, Cape Verde, and South Sudan. The meeting, attended by Minister Téte António, focused on cultural diplomacy and social projects.
Key Initiatives Discussed
- Promoting Quality Education: The representatives emphasized the importance of education in empowering young women and girls.
- Community Development: They also discussed strategies for developing peripheral communities and promoting social justice.
- Gender Equality: Ensuring justice and equality for women was a key topic of discussion.
The Meninas Primeiro Project
This initiative, founded by Miss Angola Internacional Teresa Sara, aims to promote adolescent girls' sexual and reproductive health. In partnership with the French Ambassador to Angola, Sophie Aubert, the project will be implemented across all 21 provinces in Angola to combat early pregnancy.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
The meeting highlighted the significance of cooperation between Angola, Cape Verde, and South Sudan. Miss South Sudan Internacional Amyla Deng even had a phone call with the South Sudanese Foreign Minister to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. This gathering showcases the power of cultural diplomacy and international cooperation in driving development and promoting gender equality. The "Meninas Primeiro" project is a prime example of an innovative initiative that can positively impact thousands of young Angolan women.
Africa’s Quiet Agricultural Shift: A Story Few Are Watching
Agriculture, Food Systems and Farmer Entrepreneurship and Innovation Institute
Africa’s Quiet Agricultural Shift: A Story Few Are Watching
Sub-Saharan Africa holds a staggering 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land, yet it remains a net food importer. This paradox is even more striking when considering that over 140 million people face food insecurity on a continent that could feed itself — and far beyond. The issue isn’t a lack of land; it’s a lack of investment.
The Potential for Growth
The University of Reading and Henley Business School have a long history of supporting African growth in all industries, including agriculture. With our school of agriculture, policy and development, we are the highest-placed UK University for Agriculture and Forestry at 20th in the world (QS World Rankings by Subject, Agriculture and Forestry, 2025). If we close the infrastructure, management, and financing gaps, Africa’s agribusiness sector could hit $1 trillion by 2030. This projection isn’t driven by hope; it’s based on trends already underway.
Success Stories
Ethiopia’s Wheat Self-Sufficiency: Ethiopia has become wheat self-sufficient and is now exporting to its neighbors — a result of targeted reforms and smart use of technology.
Mobile Platforms and Crop Science: In Rwanda, Ghana, and Nigeria, farmers are using mobile platforms, crop science, and market intelligence to drive yields up and costs down.
Growing Demand: With the continent’s population set to double by 2050, demand for food is rising fast — and so is the opportunity.
The Tools for Success
The tools are already in our hands: Smarter Policy: Better policies and regulations can support agricultural growth and development.
Improved Logistics: Efficient logistics and transportation systems can help get products to market.
Sustainability Practices: Sustainable practices can ensure long-term productivity and environmental protection.
Business and Management Skills: Developing business and management skills can help farmers and agribusinesses thrive.
Investment: Investment that looks beyond aid to long-term value can help unlock Africa’s agricultural potential.
A Call to Action: Africa doesn’t need handouts. It needs roads, R&D, and respect. If we get this right, Africa won’t just feed itself — it could help feed the world
Conclusion: Africa’s quiet agricultural shift is a story few are watching, but it’s one that holds immense potential for growth and development. By investing in Africa’s agricultural sector and supporting initiatives that promote sustainability, efficiency, and innovation, we can help unlock the continent’s potential and create a brighter future for millions of people.
Key Takeaways
Africa holds 65% of the world’s uncultivated arable land yet remains a net food importer.
Closing infrastructure, management, and financing gaps could help Africa’s agribusiness sector hit $1 trillion by 2030.
Success stories in Ethiopia, Rwanda, Ghana, and Nigeria demonstrate the potential for growth and development.
Smarter policy, improved logistics, sustainability practices, business and management skills, and investment are key to unlocking Africa’s agricultural potential
Recommendations
Invest in Africa’s agricultural sector to unlock its potential for growth and development.
Support initiatives that promote sustainability, efficiency, and innovation in African agriculture.
Encourage smarter policy, improved logistics, and better sustainability practices to support agricultural growth.
Develop business and management skills to help farmers and agribusinesses thrive.
Strengthening Ties: Angola and Tanzania's Growing Partnership
The President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, recently visited Angola for a 72-hour state visit, marking a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two nations. This visit highlights the growing partnership between Angola and Tanzania, with a focus on economic, social, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation.
The President of Tanzania, Samia Suluhu Hassan, recently visited Angola for a 72-hour state visit, marking a significant step in strengthening the relationship between the two nations. This visit highlights the growing partnership between Angola and Tanzania, with a focus on economic, social, scientific, technical, and cultural cooperation.
Key Areas of Cooperation
- Energy and Infrastructure: The two countries have signed memoranda of understanding in the areas of oil and gas, visa exemption, and health. The Lobito Corridor project, a key initiative, aims to connect Angola's Atlantic coast to the Indian Ocean via rail, boosting intra-African trade and regional economic development.
- Trade and Investment: The Lobito Corridor Investment Promotion Authority (LCIPA) was established to facilitate trade and investment among Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Zambia. The project has received significant funding, including a $553 million loan from the US International Development Finance Corporation (DFC).
- Health and Education: The cooperation agreement in the health sector focuses on human resource development, knowledge sharing, and public health research. This partnership will likely enhance healthcare services and promote medical research in both countries.
Recent Developments
- Lobito Corridor Summit: In December 2024, a summit was held in Benguela, attended by the presidents of Angola, the United States, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, and Tanzania's vice-president. The summit focused on the Lobito Corridor project and its potential to transform regional trade and economic development.
- Funding and Investment: The Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) and Climate Fund Managers launched the Regional Transmission Infrastructure Financing Facility (RTIFF), a $1.3 billion fund aimed at developing high-voltage transmission lines in southern Africa, including a connection between Tanzania and Zambia.
Future Prospects
The growing partnership between Angola and Tanzania holds significant potential for economic growth, regional development, and improved living standards. As the two nations continue to strengthen their ties, we can expect increased cooperation in various sectors, including energy, trade, health, and education. With major investments and funding commitments in place, the Lobito Corridor project is poised to become a game-changer for regional economic development.
Angola and Panama: A New Era of Cooperation
Angola and Panama: A New Era of Cooperation
In a significant move to foster mutual development and cooperation, the governments of Angola and Panama have signed a comprehensive agreement. This landmark deal aims to promote collaboration in various fields, including science, technology, education, and culture.
In a significant move to foster mutual development and cooperation, the governments of Angola and Panama have signed a comprehensive agreement. This landmark deal aims to promote collaboration in various fields, including science, technology, education, and culture.
Key Areas of Cooperation
The agreement, which is already in effect, covers a wide range of areas, including:
Technology and Innovation: Both countries will work together to promote technological advancements and innovation.
Education: Angola and Panama will collaborate on education initiatives, aiming to improve the quality of education in both countries.
Culture: The agreement also encompasses cultural exchange programs, designed to promote mutual understanding and appreciation.
Environmental Protection: Both nations will work together to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development
A Strong Foundation for Cooperation: The agreement was signed by the Angolan Foreign Minister, Tete Antonio, and his Panamanian counterpart at the United Nations Headquarters in New York in 2024.¹ This move demonstrates the commitment of both countries to strengthening their bilateral ties and promoting mutual development.
Implementation and Funding: The cooperation agreement will be implemented through a cost-sharing arrangement, where each country will cover its respective expenses. The host country will be responsible for accommodation, food, and internal transportation costs.
Establishing a Bilateral Commission: To facilitate cooperation and oversee the implementation of the agreement, a Bilateral Commission will be established. This commission will meet every two years, alternating between Luanda and Panama City.
A Bright Future Ahead: The signing of this agreement marks a significant milestone in the relations between Angola and Panama. By working together, both countries can leverage each other's strengths, promote mutual development, and contribute to regional and global prosperity. This cooperation agreement is a testament to the growing ties between Angola and Panama, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the economies and societies of both nations.
Angola e os Estados Unidos da América: Um Novo Capítulo nas Relações Bilaterais
Angola e os Estados Unidos da América: Um Novo Capítulo nas Relações Bilaterais
Numa conversa telefónica histórica, o Ministro das Relações Exteriores de Angola, Téte António, e o Enviado Especial do Presidente Donald Trump para a Região dos Grandes Lagos, Massad Boulos, discutiram o aprofundamento das relações bilaterais entre os dois países. Esta conversa marca um novo capítulo nas relações entre Angola e os Estados Unidos da Améric
Numa conversa telefônica histórica, o Ministro das Relações Exteriores de Angola, Téte António, e o Enviado Especial do Presidente Donald Trump para a Região dos Grandes Lagos, Massad Boulos, discutiram o aprofundamento das relações bilaterais entre os dois países. Esta conversa marca um novo capítulo nas relações entre Angola e os Estados Unidos da América.
Aprofundamento das Relações Bilaterais
Durante a conversa, os dois líderes destacaram a importância de fortalecer as relações políticas, diplomáticas, económicas e comerciais entre os dois países. Eles também abordaram questões regionais e internacionais, incluindo a paz e segurança no Leste da República Democrática do Congo (RDC).
O Corredor do Lobito: Uma Rota Estratégica
O Ministro Téte António e o Conselheiro Massad Boulos enfatizaram a importância do Corredor do Lobito, uma rota de transporte estratégica que liga o interior africano ao Oceano Atlântico. Este corredor é fundamental para o desenvolvimento económico da região e para a promoção da cooperação entre os países africanos.
Paz e Segurança na Região dos Grandes Lagos
O Enviado Especial Massad Boulos elogiou os esforços de mediação do Presidente João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço para a paz e segurança no Leste da RDC. Ele também destacou a importância da cooperação entre os países da região e as organizações internacionais para promover a paz e a segurança na Região dos Grandes Lagos.
Um Futuro Brilhante
A conversa entre o Ministro Téte António e o Conselheiro Massad Boulos marca um novo capítulo nas relações entre Angola e os Estados Unidos da América. Com a cooperação e o diálogo, os dois países podem trabalhar juntos para promover a paz, a segurança e o desenvolvimento económico na região.
A New Chapter in Angola-US Relations: Strengthening Bilateral Ties
ENGLISH TRANSLATION
A historic phone call between Angolan Foreign Minister Téte António and US Special Envoy Massad Boulos has marked the beginning of a new chapter in Angola-US relations. The conversation focused on deepening bilateral relations, addressing regional and international issues, and strengthening political, diplomatic, economic, and commercial ties ¹.
Deepening Bilateral Relations
The two leaders emphasized the importance of bolstering relations between their nations. This development is part of a broader effort to strengthen US-Africa relations, as seen in President Biden's trip to Angola, which aimed to deepen economic, trade, and investment ties between the two nations ².
The Lobito Corridor: A Strategic Route
The Lobito Corridor, a strategic transportation route connecting Africa's interior to the Atlantic Ocean, was highlighted as crucial for regional economic development and promoting cooperation among African countries.
Peace and Security in the Great Lakes Region
Special Envoy Massad Boulos praised Angolan President João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço's mediation efforts for peace and security in Eastern DRC. He stressed the importance of cooperation between regional countries and international organizations to promote peace and security in the Great Lakes Region.
A Bright Future Ahead
The conversation between Minister Téte António and Counselor Massad Boulos marks a significant step towards a brighter future for Angola-US relations. Through cooperation and dialogue, the two nations can work together to promote peace, security, and economic development in the region.
This new chapter in Angola-US relations is built on a foundation of mutual respect and cooperation. As the two nations continue to strengthen their ties, they will play an increasingly important role in promoting peace, security, and economic development in Africa
Bilateral and Multilateral Engagements
Honorable Minister Téte António is a distinguished Angolan politician and diplomat who has been making significant contributions to international relations and global diplomacy. As the Minister of External Relations of Angola since 2020, he has been instrumental in shaping the country's foreign policy and fostering strategic partnerships with other nations.