Embassy and Consulates of Angola in the U.S. and Canada Hold Meeting on Immigrants’ Rights

The Embassy of the Republic of Angola in the United States of America and the Consulates General in New York, Houston, and Toronto held a virtual meeting on Saturday, March 22, with members of the Angolan communities residing in the United States and Canada to discuss issues related to immigrants’ rights. The meeting brought together representatives of Angolan diplomatic and consular missions, members of the Angolan community, and attorneys specialising in immigration matters. The main objective was to provide clear and up-to-date information on the rights of Angolan citizens living abroad, as well as to clarify aspects of local laws that ensure the protection of immigrants. During the session, guidance was provided on best practices for ensuring the legal protection of the Angolan community. Participants also emphasised the importance of creating a forum for dialogue where citizens can express their concerns and contribute proposals aimed at strengthening cooperation between the communities and Angola’s diplomatic and consular missions. In his opening remarks, His Excellency Agostinho Van-Dúnem, Ambassador of Angola to the United States, underscored the importance of maintaining strong ties with the Angolan diaspora and ensuring that all citizens have access to relevant information and institutional support. The Ambassador reaffirmed the Government of Angola’s commitment to continuing to provide assistance, particularly in a context marked by deportations, while working to ensure that Angolan citizens are treated with dignity and fairness. “This meeting is a clear demonstration of our commitment to Angolans in the diaspora. It is essential that every citizen knows their rights and understands that they can rely on our diplomatic and consular missions. Strengthening our presence and support in North America is a priority,” Ambassador Van-Dúnem stated. The event also featured a presentation by immigration specialists, who addressed key aspects of legal procedures in the United States and provided practical guidance on how to avoid legal difficulties and maintain proper immigration documentation. An initiative was also announced to make available, in the near future, a list of contacts for law firms specialising in immigration matters to provide support to Angolan communities. This initiative forms part of the ongoing efforts of the Embassy and Consulates of Angola in the United States and Canada to strengthen ties with the diaspora, promote the well-being of Angolan citizens abroad, and safeguard their rights. The diplomatic and consular missions reiterated their commitment to solidarity, unity, and strengthening Angola’s presence in North America.