PERTH – The Australian Institute of International Affairs Western Australia (AIIA WA) hosted a special dinner event in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Angola at the Duxton Hotel in Perth, marking Angola’s Liberation Day (Dia da Libertação).
The sold-out dinner attracted more than 100 members and guests. The event brought together a highly engaged audience, including many with extensive academic, professional, and regional experience in Africa, contributing to a rich and informed discussion throughout the evening.
The keynote address was delivered by the very entertaining Dr João Manuel de Costa Canoquena, an Angolan-Australian academic based in Canberra. Dr Canoquena spoke on the development of the modern Angolan state, tracing its historical evolution and highlighting the political, economic, and strategic factors shaping Angola’s trajectory today.
Following the keynote, AIIA WA President Brendan Augustin expertly moderated a panel discussion featuring His Excellency António Manuel Luvualu de Carvalho, the first resident Ambassador of Angola to Australia, and AIIA WA Past President Dr Susan (Sue) Boyd AM FAIIA. The panel explored contemporary developments in Angola’s foreign policy, with particular attention to the country’s emerging Indo-Pacific strategy and its implications for Australia–Angola relations.
The discussion was followed by a lively Q&A session, with audience members contributing thoughtful questions and insights that reflected the depth of expertise present in the room.
AIIA WA extends its sincere thanks to His Excellency António Manuel Luvualu de Carvalho and the Embassy of the Republic of Angola for partnering with the Institute to make this important event possible. The evening was a valuable opportunity to deepen understanding of Angola’s national story and its growing engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.
