Guterres, who traveled to Luanda for the seventh African Union-European Union Summit, highlighted Angola’s regional leadership and efforts in mediating conflicts in the Great Lakes Region, including Luanda Process for peace in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Speaking before the National Assembly (parliament) the previous day, the UN Secretary-General considered Angola’s recent election to the Human Rights Council (2026-2028) a recognition of this role.

At the same time, he noted, this should translate into a renewed commitment to strengthening national institutions and protecting human rights.

Guterres highlighted the Parliament’s contribution to consolidating peace in the African nation, noting that it has become a space for debate and consensus-building, setting an example of a country that chooses dialogue over confrontation.

He also praised Angola’s progress in promoting gender equality, highlighting the high level of female representation in the legislature. However, he called for the full implementation of laws to combat violence against women, which must be accompanied by policies for their empowerment.

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