Rome: Angola’s ambassador to Italy, Josefa Correia Sacko, presented her letter of credence on Thursday in Rome to Italian President Sergio Mattarella, accrediting her as the official representative of this Southern African nation in this European country.

According to Angola Press News Agency, the Angolan diplomat highlighted the strengthening of political and commercial relations between the two countries, reaffirming her country’s commitment to intensify bilateral cooperation. President Mattarella, on his turn, highlighted the historical ties between Angola and Italy, emphasizing the values of friendship and mutual respect that guide the relationship between the two states and peoples.

At another ceremony attended by members of the diplomatic corps of the Angolan Diplomatic Mission in Rome, Ambassador Josefa Sacko emphasized the historical and strategic importance of relations between Angola and Italy and reinforced the spirit of collaboration between partner nations. The ambassador highlighted Italy’s pioneering role as the first European state to recognize Angola’s independence, a gesture she considered a fundamental foundation for deepening bilateral cooperation.

Josefa Sacko reiterated the mission’s commitment in Rome to strengthening cultural, educational, and economic ties between the two countries, with a special focus on sustainable agricultural investment and strengthening ties with United Nations agencies based in the Italian capital. The Angolan diplomat also reaffirmed Angola’s commitment to implementing the Mattei Plan, which aims at a new approach to partnership between Africa and Europe, based on mutual respect and sustainable development.