Mozambique President: CPLP Must Become ‘Community of Solidarity’
Mozambican President Daniel Chapo is calling for a fundamental shift in how the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) operates, urging member states to evolve beyond mere economic partners into a “true community of solidarity.”
Marking the organization’s 30th anniversary, Chapo emphasized that while the CPLP represents an extraordinary international market, its future success depends on deeper emotional and social ties between its nine member nations. “Our community exists, it is an extraordinary market, and we believe we need to further consolidate economic and commercial cooperation,” Chapo told Lusa. “But cooperation at the CPLP level is only truly impactful when we form a real community.”
Beyond the Balance Sheet
The Mozambican head of state argued that for the CPLP to thrive, member states must recognize their mutual interdependence. He stressed that a sense of “brotherhood” should underpin all interactions, ensuring that no country is left behind in its pursuit of growth.
“What I mean by this concept is for each of us to realize that every country needs the other,” Chapo explained. “In needing the other, we transform ourselves into a community that is not only cohesive and united but one that adds real value to the commercial and economic sectors.”
President Chapo warned that focusing solely on trade figures would be a missed opportunity. He believes that “solidarity will fortify the concept of community,” creating a stable foundation for the economic and social development required by all citizens living within the Lusophone space.
A Growing Legacy
Founded in Lisbon on July 17, 1996, the CPLP was originally established by Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Mozambique, Portugal, and São Tomé and Príncipe. The bloc has since expanded its reach across four continents.
Timor-Leste joined the fold in 2002 following its restoration of independence, and Equatorial Guinea became the most recent member during the Dili summit in 2014. As the organization enters its fourth decade, Chapo’s vision positions the CPLP as a platform where shared language and history translate into tangible mutual support.
Image: Pexels – Antonio Prado
