President Joe Biden began a two-day visit to Angola, focusing on a U.S.-backed railway project aimed at countering China.
The Lobito Atlantic Railway connects the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Zambia to Angola’s Atlantic port. Funded partly by a $550 million U.S. loan, it seeks to streamline mineral exports like copper and cobalt to the West.
China, a dominant player in the DRC, recently revived a rival railway project, escalating competition for Africa’s resources. Angola, traditionally aligned with China and Russia, is now fostering closer ties with the West.
“This project could unlock significant investment and growth opportunities,” said Angola’s transport minister, Ricardo Viegas d’Abreu.
Critics question its timeline and goals, but U.S. officials hope it will strengthen ties with Africa and reduce Beijing’s grip. Biden’s visit also underscores efforts to reshape U.S.-Angola relations after years of historical tensions.
