Biden Makes Historic Visit to Angola

President Joe Biden's historic visit to Angola marks the first by a U.S. president, emphasizing shared histories of the transatlantic slave trade. During his trip, Biden will address the legacy of slavery at the National Museum of Slavery, which includes the 17th-century chapel where enslaved people were baptized before being sent to the Americas, and he will announce a $229,000 grant for the museum's restoration. Biden's agenda also focuses on strengthening U.S.-Angola relations, notably through a major infrastructure project aimed at countering Chinese influence in the region. Despite the significance of his visit, discussions on reparations are expected to be avoided. The U.S. seeks closer ties with Angola, which has historically aligned with Russia and China, and is now viewed as a strategic partner in the context of global power dynamics. This visit not only highlights Angola's role in the slave trade but also reflects a broader commitment to addressing colonial legacies and fostering economic cooperation.