Angola: Key Partner in American Ambitions in Africa
A Strategic Visit for Joe Biden
For his first trip to Africa, Joe Biden chose Angola, highlighting the growing influence of this oil-producing country. With significant American investments in infrastructure, Angola is positioning itself as a strategic player to counter Chinese influence on the continent.
Railway Project: An Economic Corridor
From October 13 to 15, President Biden will visit the Lobito Corridor rehabilitation project, linking the Angolan port to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia. This 1,300 km rail project is essential for transporting vital resources, such as copper and cobalt, to the Atlantic Ocean. Washington is even considering extending this infrastructure eastward to the Indian Ocean, while China is also investing in the railway sector in Africa.
Less Ideology, More Diversification
When he received João Lourenço at the White House in December, Biden called the project “the most significant American investment in African rail.” The move comes amid tense geopolitical tensions between Washington and Beijing, with Angola seen as a model for diversifying its relations away from ideological dependency. According to Alex Vines of Chatham House, this strategic choice allows Angola to protect itself from Chinese and Russian influence.
Conclusion
Joe Biden’s visit to Angola is a sign of a strategic rapprochement between the United States and the country, symbolizing a new dynamic in international relations in Africa. With ambitious infrastructure projects, Angola is establishing itself as a key partner for Washington, which is seeking to strengthen its presence on the continent in the face of China’s rise.
