President Joe Biden's first trip to Africa since taking office is scheduled for the first week of December 2024, following a postponement due to Hurricane Milton. The visit to Angola, a country with a population of 37.2 million that heavily relies on oil and gas, reflects the United States' response to China's growing influence in Africa. Since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1993, US-Angola relations have improved significantly. Biden's objectives for this visit include bolstering economic partnerships, enhancing democracy, and addressing climate security issues.
In 2023, US exports to Angola amounted to $595 million, while imports were significantly higher at $1.2 billion. The US has also committed to investing $900 million in solar power projects in Angola and has provided $18 million in military aid from 2020 to 2023. This visit aims to counter China's Belt and Road Initiative, which has expanded its footprint across the continent. Biden's engagement in Africa marks a notable shift in US foreign policy, as he has been criticized for largely ignoring the continent during his presidency. The upcoming trip is seen as an opportunity to strengthen ties and address key geopolitical challenges in the region, particularly in light of China's increasing presence in Africa's economic landscape.
