The African-American Business Summit has officially commenced in Luanda, Angola, drawing together various African heads of state and high-ranking U.S. government officials. Ethiopia is a key participant, with a delegation led by President Taye Atske Selassie arriving yesterday to join the crucial discussions.
The Ethiopian contingent received a warm welcome from Angolan government officials upon their arrival in the capital. This year's summit holds particular significance, occurring in the wake of the Donald Trump administration's decision to pivot U.S. foreign policy toward Africa from an aid-centric approach to one focused on bolstering trade and investment.
The choice of Angola as host adds another layer of importance: the nation is currently celebrating its 50th anniversary of independence, and its President, João Lourenço, holds the current chairmanship of the African Union.
The high-profile event is expected to host 1,500 participants, including African leaders, ministers, senior government officials from both continents, and prominent business figures. The primary objective of the summit is to identify and capitalize on opportunities to strengthen trade and investment ties between Africa and the United States, charting a course for future collaboration.
President Taye is slated to deliver an address at the summit and will also engage in a series of bilateral discussions on the sidelines. Other high-level members of the Ethiopian delegation are also set to participate in panel discussions and various other meetings throughout the event, ENA learned.