CPLP Honors Angola on 51st Independence Anniversary
The Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP) issued a formal tribute today to the authorities and people of Angola as the nation celebrates 51 years of sovereignty. The country first proclaimed its independence from Portugal on November 11, 1975, under the leadership of António Agostinho Neto.
A Pillar of the Lusophone Community
In an official press release issued from its executive secretariat in Lisbon, the CPLP praised Angola’s “essential role” in building and strengthening the organization. The secretariat highlighted Luanda’s ongoing contributions to deepening friendship, solidarity, and cooperation among member states—bonds rooted in a shared language, cultural diversity, and common democratic values.
Honoring ‘Dipanda Day’
Known locally as “Dipanda Day,” November 11 marks the moment Agostinho Neto, a founding member of the People’s Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), declared the nation’s independence. Neto served as the country’s first head of state until his death.
The nation’s political history has since been shaped by a small number of key figures. Following a brief 10-day interim presidency by Lúcio Lara, José Eduardo dos Santos took office, leading the Lusophone nation for 38 years. The current president, João Lourenço, succeeded him in 2017.
The CPLP at 30
The congratulations come during a milestone year for the CPLP itself, which recently celebrated its 30th anniversary. The organization currently comprises nine member states spanning four continents: Angola, Brazil, Cape Verde, Guinea-Bissau, Equatorial Guinea, Mozambique, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Timor-Leste.
Image: Pexels – Cardoso Lopes Lopes
