South Africa and Angola Ink Visa Agreement
In an effort to promote economic and social integration between the two countries, South Africa and Angola have signed a visa agreement that will ease travel restrictions for their citizens. The agreement was signed on 6 November 2018, in Pretoria, by the Minister of Home Affairs of South Africa, Malusi Gigaba, and his Angolan counterpart, Ângelo da Veiga Tavares.
Under the new agreement, Angolan citizens who hold ordinary passports will no longer require visas to enter South Africa for visits of up to 90 days per year. This rule equally applies to South African citizens traveling to Angola. However, this agreement does not include those traveling for business, as they still have to apply for visas.
Minister Gigaba stated that the agreement is a step towards the implementation of the African Union`s 2063 Agenda, aimed at creating a continent with seamless borders. He also emphasized the importance of trade and tourism between the two countries, which can be improved by making travel easier.
The visa agreement is good news for South Africans seeking to travel to Angola for business or leisure. Angola`s economy is an important market for South Africa, and the ease of travel will encourage more bilateral trade and investment between the two countries. In addition, Angola is a popular tourist destination, known for its natural beauty, wildlife reserves, and historic sites.
The agreement is also a positive step towards regional integration and solidarity in Africa. By easing travel restrictions, South Africa and Angola are demonstrating their commitment to facilitating free movement of people and trade within the continent. This is a significant development, given that visa requirements have long been a barrier to economic and social integration within Africa.
In conclusion, the South Africa-Angola visa agreement is a positive development that will boost trade and tourism between the two countries. It represents a step forward in the realization of the African Union`s vision of a continent with free movement of people and goods. As South Africa continues to pursue closer ties with its African neighbors, such agreements will become increasingly important in strengthening regional integration and cooperation.