Havana, Cuba – Outgoing Angolan Ambassador to Cuba, María Cándida Teixeira, has concluded her mission, reflecting on an "exceptional experience" that deepened the strong bonds between the two nations. In a recent statement, Ambassador Teixeira emphasized the enduring partnership, tracing its roots to the 1960s and the shared struggle for freedom and sovereignty.

A Pinnacle of Diplomatic Service

Ambassador Teixeira, who began her diplomatic career in Cuba, described her four-year tenure as the "pinnacle" of her service. "Cuba feels like my second home," she stated, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to serve in a nation with such historical significance to Angola.

Historical Ties Forged in Struggle

The ambassador highlighted the deep-rooted historical and cultural ties between Angola and Cuba, acknowledging the shared heritage stemming from the transatlantic slave trade. She emphasized Cuba's crucial support during Angola's fight for independence and the preservation of its sovereignty.   

"In the most critical moments of Angola's history, Cuba sent its best asset – its sons and daughters – to fight shoulder to shoulder with Angolans," Ambassador Teixeira recalled. She cited the pivotal Battle of Cuito Cuanavale, which involved Namibian and South African forces, as a testament to this enduring solidarity.

Strengthening Bilateral Relations

Ambassador Teixeira underscored the robust political, economic, and cultural relations between Angola and Cuba. High-level visits, such as President João Lourenço's participation in the G77+China summit in Cuba and President Díaz-Canel Bermúdez's visit to Angola in 2023, have solidified these ties.

Expanding Cooperation

During her tenure, Ambassador Teixeira witnessed the diversification of bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including:

Health: Cuban medical professionals have played a vital role in Angola, particularly in remote areas, while Angolan students continue to benefit from Cuban higher education.
Defense and Security: Cooperation has been essential for maintaining peace and stability in Angola and the broader region.
Economy: Increased partnerships in agriculture and infrastructure development demonstrate the dynamic nature of the relationship.

Regional Engagement

As a non-resident ambassador, Teixeira also fostered relations with Panama, Costa Rica, the Dominican Republic, Nicaragua, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Caribbean nations. She aimed to strengthen South-South cooperation and promote economic and cultural exchange.

Angola's Leadership in Africa

With Angola assuming the African Union presidency in February, Ambassador Teixeira highlighted the nation's commitment to mediating regional conflicts, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Rwanda.

A Fond Farewell

In her farewell message, Ambassador Teixeira expressed deep gratitude to the Cuban people, stating, "I carry with me precious memories and the certainty that the work we began will continue to grow." She pledged to continue promoting friendship between the two nations in her new role at UNESCO in France.

Ambassador Teixeira concluded by emphasizing the shared values of solidarity, respect, and progress that underpin the enduring relationship between Angola and Cuba.