The Angolan, who spoke at the meeting on behalf of the continental bloc, urged the Israeli authorities to allow the opening of humanitarian corridors, as well as the return of over two million internally displaced Palestinian citizens and refugees in neighboring countries.

Lourenço considered the Cairo summit opportune and necessary, with a view to contribute strengthening a common position regarding the reconstruction and return of people to the Gaza Strip, after more than 15 months of war that destroyed almost all the infrastructure of that enclave.

He also rejected to continue the policy of settlement expansion and the illegal occupation and annexation of Palestinian territory, and defended tolerance and coexistence between religions, avoiding fanaticism and radicalism that can lead to the exacerbation of hatred and violence.

He noted that since October 7, 2023, following the attacks perpetrated by Hamas, Israel’s military response against the Palestinian people was disproportionate, with serious consequences due to the loss of innocent human lives and the humanitarian catastrophe, “which has taken on the contours of genocide”.

He also recalled the danger of the conflict spreading to the entire Middle East region, the implications of which would be deeply detrimental to regional peace and stability and, perhaps, to humanity.

“Africa, through its continental organization that I have the honor of chairing, has consistently expressed its unconditional support for the cause of the Palestinian people regarding their right to self-determination based on the principles of international law and the resolutions of the United Nations,” Lourenço said.

He added that the AU is in favor of a political solution based on the coexistence of two States, “a fundamental premise for peace, stability and security of the peoples and countries of the region.”

The Angolan president commented that the organization welcomes the implementation of the gradual ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas on the Gaza Strip, and the ongoing process of releasing Israeli hostages.

“We hope that it will continue until all kidnapped Palestinian citizens are unconditionally released. We hope that this action will mark the beginning of the definitive construction of peace through the establishment of a permanent ceasefire, facilitating the increase of humanitarian aid to the inhabitants of Gaza, as well as the beginning of the reconstruction of their territories,” he added.

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