US President Joe Biden’s visit to Angola from October 13 to 15 will focus on the Lobito Corridor, aimed at connecting the Atlantic and Indian Oceans by rail. This project is essential for regional trade and security, particularly concerning resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Biden’s trip, his first to Africa, emphasizes the United States’ competition with China in enhancing infrastructure development across the continent.
In mid-October, United States President Joe Biden is slated to visit Angola for a three-day trip from the 13th to the 15th. A key focus of this visit will be the Lobito Corridor, as the United States aims to establish a rail connection between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, competing with China’s development efforts along that route. This trip marks Biden’s long-awaited visit to Africa, which he had promised during his tenure but had not yet realized. During preparations for his visit, Angolan President Joao Lourenco met with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly. Their conversations emphasized the significance of the Lobito Corridor for regional development and Angola’s leadership role in the peace processes in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), a region rich in natural resources critical to American interests in Africa. Blinken remarked at a round table gathering that “The Lobito Corridor – connecting Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo – is one of our biggest projects… The ultimate goal is infrastructure connecting the Atlantic to the Indian Ocean.” He noted the involvement of Italy in this initiative, and mentioned that cargo shipments from the DRC to Angolan ports are already taking place, facilitating the global clean energy transition by transporting goods such as copper. Amid these developments, China is also seeking to establish a link to the Indian Ocean from the DRC, while the US is simultaneously expanding its interests in this direction. Blinken expressed optimism about Tanzania’s entry into discussions concerning the Lobito Corridor, suggesting that Tanzania could connect through the Tanzania Zambia Railway Authority, a line that has recently seen an agreement between China and Tanzania regarding enhanced collaboration.
The Lobito Corridor is a vital transportation project that links Angola, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Its development is crucial for facilitating trade and improving regional connectivity in Southern Africa. The region is rich in natural resources, making it strategically important for international stakeholders. As China expands its influence in eastern Africa, the US is making efforts to strengthen its presence through infrastructure development, particularly by enhancing ties with African nations involved in the Lobito Corridor initiative. This growing interest highlights the competition between the US and China in securing economic partnerships in Africa, particularly amid ongoing discussions about regional development and security.
In summary, President Joe Biden’s upcoming visit to Angola signifies a strategic move by the United States to bolster its engagement in Africa and counterbalance Chinese influence, particularly regarding the Lobito Corridor. The project is seen as a significant infrastructure venture that enhances trade connectivity in the region while also addressing broader security concerns in the DRC. As international dynamics evolve, the focus on the Lobito Corridor will likely remain a crucial aspect of US foreign policy in Africa.
Original Source: www.news24.com
