The President of the Republic addressed a message to the President of the Republic of Angola, José Eduardo dos Santos, on the occasion of the Country’s National Day.

Following is the text of the message:

"Mister President, Dear Friend,

On the occasion of the celebrations of Angola’s National day, I am particularly pleased to address Your Excellency, on behalf of the People of Portugal and in my own personal name, our warmest congratulations and sincere wishes for the prosperity of our brethren the People of Angola.

Portugal and Angola were able to build a solid relation of friendship and cooperation which, with the achievement of peace, has been strengthened and expanded to other areas of common interest, with expressive and mutually advantageous results, both bilaterally and in the coordination of efforts and positions on the international stage. The strength of the links that bond us and the convergence of positions relative to many of the main challenges of our time, allow us to face the future with redoubled trust and ambition. I allow myself to emphasize, in this context, our partnership within the framework of CPLP and our common determination to actively contribute towards the growing international assertion of CPLP and of the Portuguese language, a common heritage of all its members. I wish to reiterate to Your Excellency my continued determination and personal endeavour in the pursuance of those objectives.

Renewing my congratulations, I beg you to accept, Mr. President and Dear Friend, the assertion of my highest regard and personal esteem.

Aníbal Cavaco Silva"