SEPTEMBER

23 IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin SEPTEMBER 2011

years, there has been a decent resignation of President José ’s political degree of coverage of these events by Eduardo dos Santos. Lusophone and international media Academics have often been deadlock: the channels and agencies. Given the successful in explaining how the recurrence of these popular actions MPLA and the ‘presidential circle’ impossibility of a and the domestic and international maintain a tight grip on Angola’s civil circumstances Angola is currently society and political system,1 mainly experiencing, though, political by directing their explanations and two-way solution scientists have begun to question the justifications to the regime’s control impact of these youth demonstrations of the media, an intense blending Vasco Martins on several sectors of the country. of public and private sectors – Associate Researcher, IPRIS Firstly, it is vital to understand why consequently creating situations these demonstrations are taking where both are indistinguishable, Observers of Angola’s political life place. In the past whenever any type buying the support of traditional tend to look at the country’s past of popular upheaval has occurred, authorities, and expanding the and to the modus operandi of its both the MPLA and UNITA would party’s base of political support on political and economic elite – often engage in a classic blame game. the eve of elections, to name but described as the ‘presidential While the MPLA blamed UNITA for a few. These political calculations circle’ in academic literature – to stirring the social masses for its own made by the MPLA, although proven provide plausible explanations for purposes, UNITA would in turn blame very successful in maintaining any occurrence of political or social the MPLA for introducing anonymous control and absolute oversight in the conflict. There are conclusive links ‘agents’ among demonstrators to hands of the elite, have surfaced a between the past civil war and the create violence and chaos in order latent and perilous consequence: in political machinations of both the to blame UNITA – thus belying its the minds of the Angolan people it is party in power – the MPLA – and peace credentials – a card the MPLA not only the MPLA that is in control, UNITA, and there have been many has often been successful in playing but also the MPLA that is responsible international accusations pointing against its most direct political for any social degradation and to the lack of democratic mobility of opposition. Having problems of its financial instability, a sentiment the civil society and governmental own, UNITA has declared that it did often manifested in urban centers. transparency. Angola’s embryonic not help organize the latest youth The MPLA’s magnanimous grip on all democracy, however, is finding root protests, although the MPLA has of Angolan society has also created a in the recent youth protests, a wave again attempted to blame its rival situation where due to its popularity of demonstrations which started party for the ‘social disorder’. Yet, it is, in the end, also responsible on May 3rd 2011 and has continued with no apparent political support to for the circumstances in which the until now. The protests themselves speak of, youth demonstrators have are not news per se. Despite continued taking their problems and 1 See, for example, Christine Messiant, “The Mutation representing a shift in comparison words of protests into the streets, of Hegemonic Domination”, in Patrick Chabal and to the social order of the past nine frequently demanding the immediate Nuno Vidal (eds.), Angola: The Weight of History (London: C. Hurst & Co., 2007), pp. 93-123. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 2

greater part of the population sees stated that the current wave set alight old hatreds in Angola, the itself immersed. of demonstrations in Angola could country’s leadership must proceed This is perhaps one of the several indeed evolve into a climate of conflict with caution and play its cards right, plausible reasons to explain why which would absolutely threaten understanding that after 27 years these youth protests can linger on many of the advantages Angola of civil war, the country’s growth without any active support from any currently possesses in foreign policy and influence has reached a point political party. However, because affairs, while rolling back many of where conflict will not only harm the many of these youth leaders are not its established collaborations and country itself, but that others may experienced politically, they are often partnerships with other countries, suffer greatly from any political or easily corruptible and exploitable. As many still suffering the effects of the economic rollback. Furthermore, of late, one youth leader of the MRIS, financial crisis. any non-positive outcome of the the Movimento Revolucionário de Under the current circumstances, current domestic situation in Angola Intervenção Social, is said – mainly in Angola appears to be locked in a would create further obstacles to blogs and other non-official websites balance between opening the regime the country’s future development, – to have changed to the MPLA’s side into less vertical types of democratic especially by limiting its capabilities in exchange for a Mitsubishi van and rule and sacrificing much of its power to finance itself in world markets. 400.000 kwanzas. Such a move proves projection abilities, and therefore If much was at risk throughout the not only the corruptive spirit of these its foreign policy momentum. If 1990s, the country’s astonishing social movements, but also confirms the current regime collapses, the development in terms of foreign that indeed there exists a direct link investments Angola made in other policy has only further pressured between the MPLA regime and the regions and its fast paced decision- its elite to proceed cautiously in social and financial degradation of making capabilities will be sacrificed whatever it has planned to address the Angolan people in the minds of in favor of a democratic, consultative, the protests. these demonstrators. checks-and-balances oriented Despite the domestic implications of regime, which would ultimately the youth protests, there is also an freeze much of the country’s capacity international element to consider. to act. If, on the other hand the Angola is a rising star in foreign regime collapses without giving way policy making in Africa. Its diplomatic to a democratic order, Angola may tentacles have extended to new and yet again be engulfed in civil conflict, vigorous projects all across the painting a very grim picture for continent, which, combined with its Angolan diplomacy and consequently ability to project power at a quick pace shifting the country into a position of – benefiting directly from the state’s need instead of demand. Given the vertical political system – and its severe lack of internal investment astonishing economic growth, have and the grim needs of the general put Angola ‘shoulder to shoulder’ population, it would be impossible for when negotiating with Western Angola to democratize – consequently powers and a retracting South Africa. increasing its investments at home – Today, many businesses and people without sacrificing its foreign policy depend upon Angolan investment momentum. and revenue to carry on with their As it is, Angola’s growth has projected daily lives. The fact that Angola it into an important position in several is investing heavily in Portuguese sectors of international political life. companies creates a firm business Multilaterally, Angola currently holds environment between both countries, both the Presidency of the Southern while forcing a reassessment African Development Community regarding the relationship between (SADC) and the Community of colonial and colonized powers in the Portuguese Speaking Countries 21st century.2 Yet, Angolan Foreign (CPLP). Bilaterally, Angola’s strong Minister George Chicoti when visiting investments in Guinea-, , and many other African states (especially in terms of security) 2 See Pedro Seabra and Paulo Gorjão, “Intertwined creates responsibilities the regime Paths: Portugal and Rising Angola” (South African must not look upon lightly. If, at some Institute of International Affairs, Occasional Paper stage, a single spark is enough to No. 89, August 2011). IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 3

First impressions: Portugal and the UNSC eight months on

Pedro Seabra Associate Researcher, IPRIS

When, on October 12th 2010, Portugal won a non- abundantly proclaimed and reaffirmed during the permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council lengthy electoral process – will be taken into account in (UNSC) for the next two years, the country was already order to contextualize the country’s current positioning aware of the challenges that would immediately in the Council. Afterwards, a more in-depth analysis arise with such a responsibility. After a hard-fought of the ongoing term will be in order while taking into international campaign to secure the necessary votes consideration Portugal’s responsibilities and main against the other contenders – Canada and Germany, the instruments of action at the UNSC. Conclusions will then latter also elected – the time had now come to assume be drawn as to what can be expected for the remainder the fair share of responsibilities that accompanies such a of Portugal’s term on the Council and for its ability to high-profile international position.I n other words, now it continue coping with the unexpected twists and turns of was time for the “hard part”.1 international politics on the world’s highest stage. Holding an indisputable legitimacy as the primary international overseeing body, the UNSC is tasked with Portugal’s tentative agenda dealing on a daily basis with a multitude of issues ranging Since it first presented its intention of running for a from pressing security threats to global coordination on non-permanent seat back on January 5th 2000, Portugal an endless myriad of topics. As such, much of Portugal’s incessantly sought to convey to its peers the basic guiding contribution as a non-permanent member would depend lines that have helped to sustain Portuguese diplomacy first and foremost in its ability to prove itself useful and/or throughout recent decades. In essence, they include all influential for any matter brought up to discussion within the major tenets upheld by the UN and the international the Council. That in turn, would also greatly depend on community: respect for international law, the principles the country’s own initial objectives for such a role and in the UN Charter and human rights; the defense of how far it would be able to see them through. Juggling multilateralism; the promotion of a collective security varying international dynamics with the prosecution of system, etc. Not exactly a surprise, but a necessary the country’s own foreign agenda thus came to constitute requirement in any campaign for a position in a major an immediate challenge for Portuguese diplomacy in the international institution. Prevailing custom dictates that halls of Turtle Bay. any would-be candidate commits itself to act upon such With that in mind, after eight months “on the job”, this principles and more so if a country is running for a seat at article will attempt to shed some light on Portugal’s the UNSC. Portugal was no exception and, in that sense, preliminary course of action within the UNSC, seeking to uphold such guiding principles figured high at the to provide a mid-way assessment of the developments country’s priorities for the UNSC. of the first year. To that end, Portugal’s own official On the other hand, Portugal also intensively advocated goals and agenda for this mandate – which were for a reform of the UN, towards a more democratic, representative, coherent, effective and accountable organization, namely through greater transparency 1 See Pedro Seabra and Paulo Gorjão, “Portugal and the UN Security Council vic- and efficiency in the UNSC. This specific emphasis is tory: now for the hard part” (IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin, No. 12, October easily explained if one takes into consideration previous 2010), pp. 5-9. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 4

Portuguese experiences in this body – specially during and in the Ivory Coast were equally considered central the 1997-1998 term – when the country worked hard to to any future agenda, while the traditional neutrality in improve the openness and accountability of the council’s the endless Middle East peace negotiations remained meetings and decision-making process.2 The defense integral to Portugal’s tentative approach towards this of revamped and reformed methods and procedures particular region as a future non-permanent UNSC for the 2011-2012 term can member. thus be considered as a Portugal intensively So, to recap, before actually follow-up interest of such a beginning its term, Portugal previous predisposition and advocated for a reform of presented itself not only as a was certainly understood as country mutually committed a compelling argument for the UN, towards a more with the existing international several smaller/neglected legal framework while keen on countries that ended up democratic, representative, reforming some of its leading supporting and casting their structures, but also as an vote for Portugal’s bid. coherent, effective and active global partner engaged Perhaps more importantly, accountable organization, and interested in the positive though, Portugal also outcome of many concrete explicitly and actively namely through greater issues that could threaten stood by international regional stability or require peace and security as transparency and efficiency long-term international focus. central cornerstones of the Still, good intentions and international engagement in the UNSC. This specific structured planning aside, professed by the UN itself. what matters in the final To that end, Portugal emphasis is easily analysis is what Portugal pledged to contribute to the explained if one takes into actually managed to achieve development of peacekeeping when the opportunity was and peacebuilding operations consideration previous granted to implement this under the continuing agenda. Although still fresh, leadership of the UN. Likewise, Portuguese experiences in the first months of Portugal’s the challenges posed by term allow for a tentative climate change, the situations this body – specially during assessment of the results of women and children in obtained so far. armed conflicts and the the 1997-1998 term – when issues of conflict prevention the country worked hard The first eight months and peaceful resolution also The USNC today is best known remained central to Portugal’s to improve the openness for the occasional tense campaigning platform and debates and discussions were duly promoted as and accountability of the between the world’s main eventual prime concerns powers, holding permanent within the UNSC. council’s meetings and seats and veto power. This core of general leitmotifs Whenever international crises must also be complemented decision-making process. erupt, they are usually brought by specific geopolitical to the Council’s attention, thus situations that are of great interest to Portugal and that setting a motion a lengthy – and sometimes ineffective – were therefore potentially worthy of receiving a greater process of debating, with the aim of reaching a consensual focus amidst the UNSC working agenda. Among these, position. Unknown to many, however, much of the Guinea-Bissau stands out as a constant concern, but the UNSC’s workload is actually channeled on a permanent same can be said of Timor Leste’s ongoing nation-building basis through several subsidiary bodies that range from process and every other matter that deals directly with the Peacebuilding Commission to the Counter-Terrorism the remaining Lusophone countries (support for Brazil’s Committee or even to specialized Sanctions Committees.3 UN reforming views included). On the other hand, while As with every other non-permanent member, Portugal standing by its bridge-building vocation and its publicized preferential ties with Africa, developments in Sudan 3 This is possible under Rule 28 of the Provisional Rules of Procedure of the Security Council that states, “the Security Council may appoint a commission 2 See António Monteiro, “A Experiência Portuguesa na Presidência do Conselho or committee or a rapporteur for a specified question”. Presently, there are de Segurança das Nações Unidas” (Nação e Defesa, No. 104, 2003), pp. 81-95. more than twenty of these structures. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 5

was entitled to chair some of these, and thus lead the on this matter,4 for the last eight months this particular internal discussions on such issues, for the duration of committee has seen most of its works blocked by general a year. indecision over how to engage with North Korea.5 At the top of the wish list, it was an open secret that Moreover, China’s refusal to allow publication of a report Portugal desired the presidency of the Informal highlighting North Korea’s lack of compliance with the Working Group on Documentation and Other Procedural imposed sanctions – and China’s own connivance, for Questions. Indeed, not only would such responsibility that matter – has also contributed to this deadlock. In allow the country to act upon one of its central electoral light of this, it is no surprise that Portugal’s line of work platforms – the reform of the UNSC’s internal functioning has been structurally constrained, especially given – but it would also provided that it is inevitably dictated a considerable dose of by the pace of developments leverage over the remaining Portugal presented itself originating from the six-party countries in attendance. talks framework. However, perhaps due to not only as a country Portugal, however, has also precisely such eagerness had other issues to worry in advocating change mutually committed with about. On par with the North and transparency in a Korea Committee, Portugal static institution like the existing international was assigned the chair of the UNSC, Portugal’s legal framework while keen the Informal Working Group hopes ended up dashed on International Tribunals, when that group’s chair on reforming some of its in charge of debating the was awarded to Bosnia- draft procedures for the Herzegovina instead. A leading structures, but also International Draft Mechanism slight disappointment for for Criminal Courts, which will the Portugal’s expectations, as an active global partner take over after the UN’s two but far from decisive, international criminal courts, since Portugal managed engaged and interested for the former-Yugoslavia to secure an informal in the positive outcome of (ICTY) and for Rwanda (ICTR), agreement from the other by 2014. Not exactly primetime members that in 2012 it many concrete issues that news material, but still an would be placed at the important task for a country head of this particular could threaten regional that ran for the UNSC as a committee. It is therefore member of the international safe to assume that the stability or require long- community deeply committed effective persecution of this to respect for international particular goal has only term international focus. law. been delayed for the time Moreover, on top of these being. two ‘occupations’ and despite But if Portugal did not achieve one of its primary objectives not holding the front lead, Portugal was also named right up front, what other responsibilities were then Vice-Chair of the committee on proliferation of nuclear, assigned? Interestingly enough, Portugal was entrusted chemical and biological weapons, under resolution 1540 the chairmanship of the Security Council committee (2004) as well as of the committee on sanctions to Liberia, established pursuant to resolution 1718 (2006), in charge under resolution 1521 (2003).6 of the international sanctions on the Democratic People’s There was one international development, though, that Republic of Korea/North Korea over its illegal nuclear caught the world off-guard and added a new dose of activities. This comprises a far reach from Portugal’s responsibility to Portugal’s term in the Council: the Arab traditional comfort zone in terms of foreign policy, and Spring movement and, more specifically, the unraveling a high-profile and extremely demanding spotlight, situation in Libya. As the world mobilized in condemning especially if we take into consideration the frequent stand-offs and crises that have arisen on the heavily 4 Nuno Santiago de Magalhães, “Portugal, as Nações Unidas e a Coreia do Norte militarized Korean peninsula over the past few years. Nuclear” (IPRI, Occasional Paper No. 51, March 2011), p. 9. Given this tension, monitoring the application of sanctions 5 See “Security Council Report – August 2011 Monthly Forecast” (United Nations and evaluating their actual impact can quickly evolve into Security Council, 29 July 2011), pp. 13-14. a rather central role if the situation deteriorates. Still, despite the risk of “new North-Korean provocations 6 For a complete list of the Chairmen and Vice-Chairmen of the UNSC’s and the strategic differences between the US and China” subsidiary bodies for 2011 see “Note by the President of the Security Council” (United Nations Security Council, S/2011/2, 4 January 2011). IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 6

Muammar Gaddafi’s regime’s oppression, a new package to their success since it saw it as necessary step towards of sanctions began to be elaborated at the UN. The resolving this specific crisis. need for a new committee Still, when the Libyan in charge of monitoring regime crumbled down and coordinating the These last eight months and the National Transition enforcement of the new already provide a few Council (NTC) forces legal regulations was took control of Tripoli, therefore required and hints regarding Portugal’s Portugal was also quick Portugal was subsequently in acknowledging the new requested to head this diplomatic efforts within status quo and subsequently body.7 This unexpected turn pledged its support to of events, which resulted the UNSC. It is important the new authorities. As in Resolution 1970, then ambassador José Moraes led to a coveted position to notice that many of the Cabral stated, in light of of centrality amidst the ‘larger issues’ that Portugal the new developments, concerted international “Portugal stands ready to efforts that sought to identified during its candidacy support the Libyan people address the Libyan crisis. on their path to peace and Furthermore, the Sanctions as potential causes to pursue democracy, including in the Committee proved framework of the Security invaluable in undermining when in the Council, have Council and the 1970 the financial foundations Sanctions Committee in this of Gaddafi’s rule, and been constantly brought to new phase in which funds was therefore considered the UNSC’s attention in the need to be made available a central part of the for state-building, economic international response. last few months and were recovery and urgent The situation further humanitarian assistance”.9 escalated when consensus duly addressed by Portuguese Portugal’s role, this time emerged on the need to in unfreezing those Libyan impose a no-fly zone on the diplomats. Moreover, it is assets precisely targeted by ground under Resolution the 1970 Committee, thus 1973. For its part, Portugal undeniable that Portugal, remained crucial. continued to stand by its together with the rest of the But if Libya proved in itself previous condemnation the unexpected factor in of “the indiscriminate international community, was Portugal’s term so far, what violence against civilians, to make of its previously the gross and systematic playing by ear regarding the targeted ‘interests’? violation of human rights Regarding Timor Leste, for and of humanitarian law, landslide in Northern Africa example, Portugal played an perpetrated by a regime that active part in underscoring had lost all its credibility and the deteriorating situation the need for continuing and legitimacy vis-à-vis in Libya that followed. international support even its own population and the after the United Nations international community”8 Integrated Mission in Timor and thus voted favorably for such an operation. Although Leste (UNMIT) fulfils its term in 2012.10 Likewise, after it did not physically contribute to NATO’s air sorties, it was the initial fears of instability following the referendum then clear that Portugal remained very much committed

9 José Moraes Cabral, “Statement by the Representative of Portugal, H. E. Ambassador José Filipe Moraes Cabral, at the Security Council on the adoption 7 Teresa de Sousa and Isabel Gorjão dos Santos, “Portugal vai presidir ao Comité of resolution on Libya” (Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations, 16 de Sanções da ONU para a Líbia” (Público, 3 March 2011). See also “Note by September 2011). the President of the Council” (United Nations Security Council, S/2011/2/Add. 1, 9 March 2011). 10 See United Nations Security Council, “Resolution 1969 (2011)” (United Nations Security Council, S/RES/1969 (2011), 24 February 2011); José Moraes Cabral, 8 José Moraes Cabral, “Explanation of vote by the Representative of Portugal, “Statement by the Representative of Portugal, H. E. Ambassador José Filipe H. E. Ambassador José Filipe Moraes Cabral, on the Resolution 1973 on Libya, Moraes Cabral, at the debate at the Security Council regarding the United in the Security Council Chamber” (Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor Leste (UNMIT)” (Permanent Mission of Nations, 17 March 2011). Portugal to the United Nations, 22 February 2011). IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 7

in Sudan and the birth of the Republic of South Sudan, June in no way altered the planned course of action for Portugal continuously stressed that “the international the country in the Council. Indeed, despite new slight community should continue to afford to the two States changes of tone, the pillars of Portuguese diplomacy the support and encouragement they will need in the have remained largely unaltered and Prime Minister still difficult times ahead.”11 As for Guinea-Bissau, Passos Coelho and Foreign Minister ’s first Portuguese efforts were concentrated mainly on the ventures into these matters have only confirmed such a country’s specific configuration of the Peacebuilding predisposition for continuity. It is therefore no wonder Commission where, alongside Brazil, it tried to keep the that the priorities for the Portuguese Representation at international interest and effort above constant incidents the UN have remained on track. that threatened to taint the ongoing Security Sector Second, it is important to notice that many of the ‘larger Reform (SSR) process. issues’ that Portugal identified during its candidacy as However, as the UN gathered for its 66th General potential causes to pursue when in the Council, have Assembly, one topic in particular effectively owned been constantly brought to the UNSC’s attention in the the working agenda: Palestinian Authority President last few months and were duly addressed by Portuguese Mahmoud Abbas’s request for admission of the state of diplomats. “Post-conflict peacebuilding”, “Protection Palestine at the UN. Given Portugal’s stature as a non- of Civilians in Armed Conflicts”, “Security Implications permanent member, the country was in a critical but of Climate Change”, “The impact of HIV/AIDS on uncomfortable position, since it favored the Palestinian international peace and security”, “Children and Armed bid in general terms but could not risk compromising Conflict” are just some examples of what the UNSC has any negotiation efforts, improbable as they might appear. considered so far this year. Although one should not Amid the intense row of diplomatic backstage work overstate the merit of Portugal in this – specially since occurring in New York – including the US’s pre-announced it was not Portugal who scheduled or organized these veto intention and the EU’s traditional disarray in this debates – the fact is, it provides a rather positive image matter – Prime Minister took the of a non-permanent member sticking to and promoting opportunity of his address to the General Assembly, to its previously announced agenda. clarify Portugal’s position on Palestinian statehood: Third, it is undeniable that Portugal, together with the “[such a] step must be the result and logical outcome rest of the international community, was playing by of negotiations. Therefore, we understand this request ear regarding the landslide in Northern Africa and the to be an expression of interest that will be fulfilled with deteriorating situation in Libya that followed. Given that the signing of a Peace Agreement, thus ending one of the it was immediately catapulted to the frontline, by heading longest conflicts of our era. Until then, we are open to the newly instated Sanctions Committee on Libya, support a strengthened status for Palestine in the United Portugal was given an opportunity to play a decisive role Nations”.12 For all purposes, a middle ground approach in this particular crisis. An unexpected turn of events, to that provides the Palestinians with a way out and a loose be sure, but also a high-profile responsibility that ended incentive for the return to negotiations. Nevertheless, as up demonstrating Portugal’s credentials in matters of developments continue to unfold, the practicality of this international security and protection of human rights. proposal remains to be seen. Finally, the Middle Eastern conundrum continues to hold the potential to derail all the best-intentioned Final remarks efforts that Portuguese diplomacy can come up with. In all fairness, extrapolating conclusions regarding Although the country cautiously maneuvered through the Portugal’s proceeding term based solely in its first eight heated tempers in attendance of the General Assembly, months would certainly provide us with an inaccurate Portugal will inevitably remain in the spotlight for the account. In order to judge a country’s performance in time being and any decision that it might adopt in the one of the world’s most influential and publicly exposed UNSC regarding this matter, will produce repercussions stages one has to take its full duration into consideration on one side or the other. while prudently acknowledging any initial achievements. In the short-term, though, much of Portugal’s range will Still, these last eight months already provide a few hints be better in evidence when it presides over the Security regarding Portugal’s diplomatic efforts within the UNSC. Council in November, which constitutes a highlight for First, it is safe to say that the change of government in any non-permanent member’s term. Foreseeing some of his country’s initiatives for that month, Prime Minister Passos Coelho has already indicated that “a meeting on 11 Luis Brites Pereira, “Statement by the Secretary of State of Foreign Affairs and new challenges to international peace and security” with Cooperation of Portugal, H. E. Mr. Luís Brites Pereira, at the Security Council Debate on Sudan” (Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations, 13 July the aim “to promote an integrated vision that mirrors 2011). the many challenges we face in the 21st Century” will

12 Pedro Passos Coelho, “Speech of the Prime Minister to the General Assembly” (, 24 September 2011). IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 8

be high on the agenda.13 Portugal’s goal is “to contribute toward a greater coherence between the different debates already held on that topic, thus reinforcing the effectiveness of [the UN’s] joint action”. Moreover, Portugal will continue to view with “utmost importance the institutional complementarity between the General Assembly and the Security Council” and plead for “the Council to be able to work in an open and transparent environment, in particular in its relationship with this Assembly.”14 To that end, it will organize an event on the working methods of the UNSC, further highlighting the country’s commitment to the reform of this body. All in all, early evaluations of these last few months cannot fail to be fairly positive. When viewed in comparison with other partners in a similar position,15 Portugal has undoubtedly treaded a consistent path of engagement within the UNSC, trying to enhance its expertise in certain scenarios (i.e. Timor Leste, Guinea Bissau) while advocating on issues that it understands to be vital in the advancement of the core principles that sustain the international community. Moreover, despite the singularity of the Libyan situation, the fact that Portugal managed to adapt its discourse and objectives to a fast-evolving scenario bodes well for other future predicaments that are bound to arise in the remaining duration of Portugal’s term. In that sense, expectations for the remaining year and a half are on course, as Portugal will eventually try to push harder for its agenda, and especially so for the reform of UNSC methods and functioning, while continuing to deal with a heavy international agenda that will never really subside.

13 Pedro Passos Coelho, “Statement by the Prime Minister of Portugal, H. E. Mr. Pedro Passos Coelho, at the Security Council on the High Level Meeting on “The maintenance of international peace and security: conflict prevention”” (Permanent Mission of Portugal to the United Nations, 22 September 2011).

14 Pedro Passos Coelho, “Speech of the Prime Minister to the General Assem- bly”, op. cit.

15 Ralf Neukirch, “Germany’s Woeful Security Council Record” (Der Spiegel, 21 September 2011). IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 9

Timeline of Events

6 September (New York): counterpart, Paulo Portas, intended to facilitate Angola Human Rights Watch denounced the move by the circulation of citizens and businessmen. Angolan authorities to arrest protesters and 2 September (): the use of “unnecessary and disproportionate” 16 September (Luanda): The Novo Jornal newspaper reported that force. Luanda’s provincial government banned public former Sonangol CEO Manuel Vicente had been protests in the capital’s Independence Square chosen by President José Eduardo dos Santos 7 September (Belgrade): and said they may only take place on the to be his successor. This succession could take Angolan Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, outskirts of the city. place as early as the 2012 general elections Manuel Augusto, represented his country at or shortly after it. Vicente’s name has been the 50th anniversary celebrations of the Non- 18 September (Abidjan): on the list of possible successors for some Aligned Movement’s Ministerial Conference. An Angolan delegation, led by the country’s time. Manuel Vicente – who has a reputation Augusto expressed Angola’s defense of non- Internal Security Director-General Sango André of extreme competence and deep business ties interference by external powers in the internal de Oliveira João, was received by President with Chinese investors (most notably with Xi affairs of other countries. of Ivory Coast Alassane Ouattara. This visit’s Jinping, the Chinese vice-president) – seems objective was to revive relations between the to lack support within the ruling MPLA party. 9 September (Washington): two countries, as Angola used to be a strong President José Eduardo dos Santos is keeping The new Angolan ambassador to the United supporter of former President Laurent Gbagbo. the names of possible successors turning on States, Alberto do Carmo Bento Ribeiro, the roaster, leaving no certainty about who presented his credentials to US President 20-26 September (New York): might be chosen. Barack Obama. On the occasion, Obama Foreign Affairs Minister George Chicoti stressed the impressive economic recovery represented Angola the 66th session of the 3 September (São Tomé): of Angola in the last decade and also the United Nations General Assembly. Vice- Vice-President Fernando da Piedade Dias importance of the 2012 general elections. President Fernando da Piedade Dias dos dos Santos ‘Nandó’ represented President Santos ‘Nandó’ was slated to represent Angola. José Eduardo dos Santos in the swearing- 9 September (Luanda): However, he was retained in London due to in ceremony for São Tomé and Príncipe’s MPLA spokesperson Rui Falcão stated to the medical reasons. President Manuel Pinto da Costa. ‘Nandó’ Novo Jornal that Manuel Vicente’s chances relayed José Eduardo dos Santos’ wish that of becoming the next Angolan President are 20-21 September (Luanda): Pinto da Costa would reinforce “friendship ties as good as anyone else’s within the Party’s Serbian Defense Minister Dragan Sutanovac and bilateral cooperation” with Angola. Political Bureau. was granted audiences by President José Eduardo dos Santos and Minister of State and 3 September (Luanda): 11-12 September (Luanda): Chief of the Military House of the President After a first attempt at protesting the 32-year Liberian President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf Hélder Vieira Dias ‘Kopelipa’, and held a rule of President José Eduardo dos Santos on visited Angola, where she was received by working meeting with his counterpart Cândido March 7th, this time a group of around 200 to 300 President José Eduardo dos Santos. Liberia is Pereira Van-Dúnem. young protesters gathered in the Independence set to become an oil-producing country, thus Square in an authorized protest, without the Johnson-Sirleaf sought to strengthen bilateral 24 September (New York): support of any opposition party. Protests turned relations and technical cooperation in that Foreign Affairs Minister, George Chicoti, met to violence when the group of youths decided sector. Guinea’s President, Alpha Condé. Condé stated to march towards the Presidential Palace, in that he expects Angola to support his country’s response to the arrest of some companions 12 September (Luanda): candidature to the AU chairmanship. who had gathered in the Independence Square 18 of the 24 people arrested in the September sooner than expected. The violence is said 3rd rally were sentenced to 45 days to three 24 September (Luanda): to have erupted from unidentified civilian- months of jail. One of the defense lawyers said As a reaction to the demonstrations against dressed elements within the crowd, which were the judge did not convert jail sentences into Eduardo dos Santos, the MPLA organized accused of belonging to the Secret Services or fines due to great “political pressure”. several rallies to support the President. The the MPLA security forces. At least 24 people party’s first secretary in Luanda, Bento Bento, were arrested. 15-16 September (Lisbon): said that millions Angolans are “against Foreign Affairs Minister George Chicoti signed disturbance and disorder”. a Protocol on Visa requirements with his IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 10

25 September (Luanda): Haiti and the South Atlantic area were high on 28-29 September (Brasília): A second demonstration gathered around 100 the agenda. Foreign Minister António Patriota met with his protesters to denounce the 32-year old rule of Cuban counterpart, Bruno Rodriguéz Parrilla. Eduardo dos Santos and asking for the release 5 September (Rabat): Bilateral relations and the strengthening of of the 18 protesters arrested on the September Foreign Minister Antônio Patriota met with cooperation initiatives to benefit third countries 3rd manifestation. The group wanted to march his Moroccan counterpart Taieb Fassi Fihri, was high on the agenda. to the Independence Square but was stopped seeking to discuss bilateral cooperation and by police forces to do so. the current situation in the Northern African 29 September (London): region. Brazilian Robério Oliveira Silva was elected as 26 September (New York): the Coffee International Organization’s next Foreign Affairs Minister, George Chicoti, 6 September (Asunción): Executive-Director. addressed the 66th session of the UN General Defense Minister Celso Amorim met with his Assembly, where he disapproved external Paraguayan counterpart Catalino Ortiz and 29 September (Brasília): intervention as a factor that obstructs the President Fernando Lugo. Defense cooperation Brazilian Congress approved the sending of a resolution of conflicts in the world. Chicoti along the common border was high on the Brazilian vessel, together with a airplane and defended the role of multilateral institutions, agenda. with over 300 sailors, to join the United Nations such as the SADC, ECCAS, the Gulf of Guinea Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) in a bid Commission and of CPLP, where Angola 8 September (Montevideo): to underscore the country’s commitment to participates. Foreign Minister Antônio Patriota and Defense developments in the Middle East. Minister Celso Amorim attended the II Meeting 26 September – 3 October (Havana): of Foreign and Defense Ministers form South 29 October (Brasília): An official Angolan Armed Forces delegation American nations contributing to the United During a Senate hearing, Defense Minister visited Cuba led by General Geraldo Nunda Nations Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). The Celso Amorim confirmed that at least 257 Sachipengo, Chief of the General Staff. drawdown of the current forces on the ground Brazilian troops, out of a total of 2.200, will was high on the agenda, with Amorim asking leave Haiti by March 2012. 28 September (Luanda): for a 15% reduction by the end of the year. The Venezuelan embassy in Luanda informed that Angola will open an Embassy in Caracas 11-12 September (Istanbul): until the end of the year. Foreign Minister Antônio Patriota’s Turkish Cape Verde counterpart Ahmet Davutoglu and with President Abdullah Gul. Bilateral relations and 3 September (São Tomé): pressing international issues were high on the Outgoing President Pedro Pires represented Brazil agenda. Cape Verde in the inauguration of São Tomé and Príncipe’s new President Manuel Pinto da 2 September (Sofia): 18-22 September (New York): Costa. Foreign Minister Antônio Patriota travelled to President Dilma Rousseff travelled to New Bulgaria where he met with his counterpart York, where she officially opened debates for 6-8 September (Praia): th Nikolay Mladenov, Vice-President of the the 66 United Nations General Assembly – Defense Minister Jorge Tolentino met with his National Assembly Anastas Atanassov and thus becoming the first female president to Angolan counterpart Cândido Pereira Van- with the President Giorgi Parvanov. Bilateral ever do so – while supporting the international Dúnem, with the aim of deepening military relations as well as international issues such recognition of a Palestinian state. Rousseff cooperation between the two countries. The as the Middle East and the UN reform were also took the opportunity to hold bilateral possible training of Cape Verdean military high on the agenda. meetings with several peers, including her policemen by Angolan instructors was high British, French, Mexican, Chilean Peruvian and on the agenda. Van-Dúnem also took the 4 September (Moscow): Colombian counterparts. opportunity to meet with Prime Minister José Foreign Minister Antônio Patriota met with his Maria Neves and outgoing President Pedro Russian counterpart, Sergei Lavrov. Bilateral 21-24 September (New York): Pires. relations and the UN Security Council agenda According to Foreign Minister Antônio Patriota, were among the topics covered. Brazil will hold off plans to purchase new fighter 9 September (Praia): jets at least until 2012 as the government cuts President Jorge Carlos Fonseca was 5 September (Buenos Aires): spending to fight the global economic crisis. inaugurated as the next President of the Defense Minister Celso Amorim met with his At the sidelines of the UN General Assembly, Republic of Cape Verde. Several foreign Argentinean counterpart Arturo Puricelli. Patriota also took part in meetings with his G4, dignitaries attended the ceremony including Strategic, military and technological G15, IBSA, BRICS and ASPA peers. São Toméan President Manuel Pinto da Costa, cooperation, bilateral military production, Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Abdel UNASUL’s South American Defense Council, Aziz, Guinean Prime Minister Carlos Gomes IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 11

Júnior and CPLP Secretary General Domingos 16 September (Bissau): 3 September (Maputo): Simões Pereira, among others. Following Prime Minister Carlos Gomes President Armando Guebuza opened the Júnior’s offer of asylum to Muammar Gaddafi, 10th All-Africa Games, held in Maputo. In his 15-16 September (Ponta Delgada): President Malam Bacai Sanhá released a speech, Guebuzed hoped these games would Prime Minister José Maria Neves attended the statement saying that he “is concerned by the promote peace and African unity. 16th Metropolis International Conference in Prime Minister’s declaration and especially the Azores. interpretation of it. The presidency is not going 5 September (Maputo): in the same direction as this declaration”. Mozambique is set to become a world-player in 19-24 September (New York): the biofuels field.A ccording to Hélio Neves, the Prime Minister José Maria Neves attended the 20 September (Bissau): biofuel program coordinator at the Agricultural 66th UN General Assembly. The Bissau-Guinean economy is expected to Promotion Centre, there are some 30 projects grow 5.3% this year according to a projection active in the country, which amount to a US$100 22 September (): from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). million investment. Cape Verde’s first President after the country’s independence, Aristides Pereira, died at the 20 September (Bissau): 9 September (Matola): age of 87. The Cabinet reshuffle announced at the end of Cimpor, a major Portuguese cement firm, August was officially formalized as President opened a cement mill which has the capacity 22 September (Washington): Malam Bacai Sanhá swore in the new officials, to produce 600,000 metric tons annually, in an According to a report released during the including new Foreign Minister Mamadú Jaló 218 million investment. International Monetary Fund and the World Pires and new Defense Minister Baciro Dja. Bank Annual meeting, Cape Verde is one of 12 September (Maputo): the four African countries on course to reach 23-29 September (New York): The Saharawi Embassy in Maputo issued a the Millennium Development Goals by 2015. Prime Minister Carlos Gomes Junior took part statement focusing on Mozambique’s support Moreover, the same report highlighted that in in the 66th UN General Assembly. In his address, for West Sahara’s “struggle for freedom and 2010, Cape Verde was amongst the ten most Junior called for the US and the EU members independence”. Deputy Foreign Minister reforming countries in the world. to help the impoverished West African country Henrique Banze expressed Mozambique’s control its maritime borders against drug commitment to “defending the just cause of the 26 September (Lisbon): traffickers. Afterwards, Junior also met with Sahrawi people in international forums”. Prime Minister José Maria Neves met briefly UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon with the with Portuguese Prime Minister Pedro Passos implementation of a peacebuilding plan and 13 September (Luanda): Coelho, with the EU-Cape Verde Special social and political reforms in Guinea Bissau Outgoing Mozambican ambassador to Angola Partnership and bilateral ties high on the high on the agenda. António Matonse presented his farewell agenda. greetings to National Assembly Speaker 25 September (Bissau): António Kassoma. 28 September (Brussels): During the celebrations of the country’s 38th The approved with 539 independence anniversary, President Malam 16 September (Nampula): votes in favor, 82 against and 21 abstentions, Bacái Sanhá declared himself proud of how far Three American and one Britton were arrested the new fishing agreement between the EU and Guinea Bissau had reached and highlighted the and accused of accused of possessing illegal Cape Verde, which will come into force from “near total stability” on the ground for the past weapons. The westerners were allegedly November 2011 to August 2014. two years. Sanhá also disclosed that several working for the US security firm GreySide and high-ranking military were ready to retire, as a were preparing to support the rescue of a ship step to accomplish the ongoing Security Sector held by pirates north of Mozambique. Reform (SSR) process. Guinea-Bissau 19 September (Mumbai): Indian state-owned BPCL will invest US$400 9 September (Praia): million for a 10% stake in a liquefied natural Prime Minister Carlos Gomes Júnior Mozambique gas terminal in Mozambique, which will have a represented Guinea-Bissau in the inauguration total cost of US$4 billion. A company subsidiary of Jorge Carlos Fonseca as Cape Verde’s 1 September (Maputo): – Bharat PetroResources – and its partners, President. Portuguese groups Américo Amorim and claim to have discovered some 6 trillion cubic Visabeira teamed-up with Mozambican feet of gas. 9 September (Praia): investors to inaugurate a new retail-bank, the During a radio interview, Prime Minister Carlos Banco Único. Portuguese banks already play a 20-25 September (New York): Júnior said ousted Libyan leader Muammar major role in the Mozambican banking system. President António Guebuza represented Gaddafi would be welcomed “with open arms” Mozambique at the 66th Session of the United if he seeks exile in Guinea-Bissau. Nations General Assembly. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 12

20 September (Matola): 8 September (Lisbon): Prime Minister Aires Ali laid the first stone of a Portugal NATO Secretary-General Anders Fogh 5.000 house complex financed by the Chinese. Rasmussen met with President Aníbal Cavaco The project is estimated to cost US$439 million 1 September (Berlin): Silva, Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho, and will also include roads, schools, clinics and Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho met with Foreign Minister Paulo Portas and Defense a shopping centre over 18 months. German Chancellor Angela Merkel to discuss Minister José Pedro Aguiar-Branco, to discuss bilateral relations and the current financial the organization’s ongoing reform efforts, 22 September (New York): hurdles in the Eurozone. including the move of STRIKEFORNATO At the margins of the 66th session of the United headquarters to Portugal. Aguiar-Branco also Nations General Assembly, President Guebuza 1 September (Paris): took this opportunity to reinforce Portugal’s stated to the press that divergent interests Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho and commitment to Afghanistan with the contingent between the countries are the main obstacle to Foreign Minister Paulo Portas attended an of 228 men already on the ground. speedy implementation of the desired reforms international summit on the future of Libya, to the United Nations Security Council. after the fall of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi. 9 September (Praia): Finance Minister represented the 22 September (New York): 2-3 September (Sopot): Portuguese government at the inauguration President Guebuza also spoke about the Foreign Minister Paulo Portas attended the of Jorge Carlos Fonseca as Cape Verde’s next Cahora Bassa Dam, in which the Portuguese informal gathering of EU Foreign Ministers. President. state still holds a 15% stake (Portugal started The situations in Libya and Syria, as well the to sell its 82% share to Mozambique in 2007, a Israeli-Palestinian issue, were high on the 9 September (Berlin): remainder from colonial times). Guebuza hopes agenda. Foreign Minister Paulo Portas met with his the transfer of the remainder can be agreed in German counterpart Guido Westerwelle to the upcoming bilateral summit between the 3 September (São Tomé): discuss issues related to both countries’ two countries in November. Former President António Ramalho Eanes agendas in the United Nations Security Council. represented Portugal at the inauguration of 26 September (Washington): São Tomé and Príncipe’s new President Manuel 14 September (Lisbon): The World Bank granted US$70 million to Pinto da Costa. Ibero-American Secretary-General Enrique support the development of water supply in V. Iglesias met with President Aníbal Cavaco Maputo and the country’s capacity to deal with 6-8 September (Lisbon): Silva, Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho, natural disasters. Mozambique is still very While in Portugal for a private conference, Foreign Minister Paulo Portas and Speaker of reliant of foreign donor support. former Brazilian President Luiz Inácio ‘Lula’ Parliament Assunção Esteves. Preparations for da Silva took the opportunity to meet with the next Ibero-American Summit were high on 28 September (Maputo): President Aníbal Cavaco Silva, Prime Minister the agenda. In the midst of a coal fever in the Tete province, Pedro Passos Coelho and Foreign Minister the Ministry of Mineral Resources, Afonso Paulo Portas, to whom he conveyed his 14-18 September (Lisbon): Mabica, decided to suspend the issuing of new disposition to serve as an unofficial Brazilian Angolan Foreign Minister George Chicoti met prospecting and mining concessions licenses. ambassador for companies interested in with President Aníbal Cavaco Silva, Prime This suspension is intended to allow the Portugal’s upcoming privatization bids. Minister Pedro Passos Coelho, Foreign Minister Ministry to access if companies that already Paulo Portas and Defense Minister José Pedro hold licenses are complying with the terms of 7 September (Benghazi): Aguiar-Branco. The highlight of the visit included their contracts. Foreign Minister Paulo Portas paid a visit to a much desired visa protocol to facilitate the Libya where he met with the President of the issuance of visas between the two countries. 28-30 September (Maputo): National Transitional Council (NTC) Mustafa The Joint Inter-Governmental Meeting Abdel Jalil, seeking to convey Portugal’s 15-16 September (Warsaw): between Mozambique and Vietnam took support for the NTC’s rule and interest in Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho travelled place in Maputo. On the occasion, Vietnam’s deepening trade and economic relations to where he met with his counterpart Ambassador to Mozambique, Dang Gland, between the two countries. The matter of the Donald Tusk, with the European financial stated to the press that his country intends to contracts previously signed with Portuguese crisis as the main topic. Coelho also took the strengthen bilateral cooperation in the areas of companies during the Gadhafi years was also opportunity to meet with President Bronislaw agriculture, education and defense, amongst addressed. Komorowski. others. Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister, Eduardo Koloma, announced Mozambique will 7 September (Lisbon): 16 September (Paris): open an Embassy in Vietnam until the end of Portuguese bank Millenium BCP announced that Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho met with the year. it had signed an agreement with Angolan bank his French counterpart François Fillon and Banco Privado do Atlântico to establish a bank in President Nicolas Sarkozy to discuss bilateral Brazil focusing on corporate and trade finance. relations and European affairs. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 13

19 September (Lisbon): of State, , with the Middle East Guinea Teodoro Obiang Nguema and Nigerian According to a report released by the Bank of and the EU high on the agenda. Portas also President Goodluck Jonathan. Portugal, the of five Portuguese-speaking took the opportunity to visit the Organization African countries (PALOP) to Portugal totalled of American States (OAS), the US Chamber 9 September (Praia): 21.746 billion at the end of 2010. According to of Commerce and the think-tank Council on President Manuel Pinto da Costa represented the document, of the five countries Angola was Foreign Relations. São Tomé and Príncipe in the inauguration of the one with the biggest debt, around 60% of Jorge Carlos Fonseca as Cape Verde’s new the total, or 21.056 billion. Mozambique was 26 September (Lisbon): President. the country with the second largest debt to the Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho met Portuguese state, having seen a rise of 265 briefly with hisC ape Verdean counterpart, José 26 September (New York): million between 2009 and 2010. Cape Verde’s Maria Neves to whom he conveyed Portugal’s Foreign Minister Manuel Salvador dos Ramos debt, on the other hand, grew to 2196 million support for the EU-Cape Verde’s Special represented São Tomé and Príncipe in the while São Tomé and Principe’s rose to 249 Partnership and the deepening of bilateral ties. United Nations 66th General Assembly. Ramos million. For its part, Guinea Bissau’s fell by 27 took the opportunity to note that that “the million due to appreciation of the dollar against 26-29 September (Lisbon): widespread use of international mediation as a the euro. Timorese Prime Minister José Alexandre technique of resolving crises as a fundamental ‘Xanana’ Gusmão, accompanied by Foreign feature of peaceful conflict resolution has not 19-23 September (New York/ Minister Zacarias Albano da Costa, visited always matched our expectations and produced Washington): Portugal and met with President Aníbal Cavaco the expected results”. Foreign Minister Paulo Portas travelled Silva and Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho, to New York to participate in the 66th UN among other dignitaries. The strengthening General Assembly and hold several bilateral of bilateral relations and joint cooperation Timor Leste meetings with his peers, including those projects was high on the agenda. from Uruguay, Namibia, Nauru, EU and 1-5 September (Nanning): CPLP, among many others. Portas also 29 September (Warsaw): President José Ramos-Horta attended the attended high-level meetings on international Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho attended International Conference of Asian Political cooperation over terrorism and represented the EU-Eastern Partnership Summit. Coelho Parties (ICAPP) as a guest speaker. Portugal in a special summit regarding the also took opportunity to hold bilateral meetings situation in Libya. Moreover, Portas also took with Georgian President Mikhail Saakachvili, 2 September (Díli): the opportunity to meet with several key US Moldovian Prime Minister Vladimir Filat, Deputy Prime Minister of Timor Leste José Senators and Representatives, after a bried vist Ukranaian President Viktor Yanukovitch and Luís Guterres announced that Army Chief Taur to Washington aimed at improving Portugal’s Slovakian Prime Minister Iveta Radicová. Matan Ruak had tendered his resignation. This foreign image. decision is widely interpreted as a preemptive 30 October (Lisbon): move towards a possible candidacy for the 2012 22-23 September (Wroclaw): Banco Espírito Santo (BES) announced that it presidential elections. Defense Minister José Pedro Aguiar-Branco had signed an agreement for a US$300 million attended the Informal Gathering of EU Defense three-year loan from China Development Bank 5-9 September (Auckland): Ministers. Aguiar-Branco took the opportunity under a cooperation treaty with the Chinese Prime Minister José Alexandre ‘Xanana’ to announce cuts in Portuguese defense state-controlled lender, with the aim of Gusmão attended the Pacific Islands Forum, spending but reassured his peers that the investing in Africa. with climate change and specially the threat country would remain committed to most of its of rising seas to low-lying nations, high on the current international assignments. agenda. He also took the opportunity to meet São Tomé with New Zealander Defense Minister Wayne 22-24 September (New York): Mapp, to sign a memorandum of understanding Prime Minister Pedro Passos Coelho took and Príncipe about future defense arrangements, including part in the 66th UN General Assembly. Passos the downgrading of New Zealand’s troops in Coelho also took the opportunity to meet with 3 September (São Tomé): Timor Leste by next year. his counterparts from Colombia, Nigeria, Manuel Pinto da Costa was formally sworn in South Africa, Mozambique, Cape Verde, Qatar, as São Tomé and Príncipe’s next President, 7 September (Díli): Serbia, Israel, Palestinian Authority, Kuwait, after winning the election on August 7th. The Indonesian Golkar Party Chairman Aburizal South Sudan, Guinea-Bissau, as well as with ceremony was attended by several foreign Bakrie met with President José Ramos-Horta, UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. officials, including Cape Verdean President to whom he conveyed his support for Timor Pedro Pires, former Portuguese President Leste’s application to join the Association of 25-27 September (Washington): António Ramalho Eanes, Angolan Vice- Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Foreign Minister Paulo Portas paid a bilateral President Fernando da Piedade Dias dos visit to the U.S., where he met with Secretary Santos ‘Nandó’, President of Equatorial IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 14

8 September (Díli): 26 September (Díli): During a party congress, Fretilin Secretary- Timor Leste’s Navy officially received three General Mari Alkatiri called for Prime Minister South Korean decommissioned vessels to help Xanana Gusmão to step down as his cabinet the country guard its territorial waters and faces scrutiny over corruption claims ahead of preserve marine resources. elections. 26-29 September (Lisbon): 13 September (Díli): Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão paid an official Timor Leste inaugurated its new monetary visit to Portugal where he me with President authority, named Timor Leste’s Central Bank, Aníbal Cavaco Silva and Prime Minister Pedro which will be in charge of carrying out policies Passos Coelho. The expansion of bilateral ties to maintain domestic price stability, including and Timor Leste’s possible interest in Portugal’s providing the economy with liquidity, along with upcoming privatization process were high on regulating and supervising the banking market, the agenda. Portuguese Defense Minister José and in the future the insurance market. Pedro Aguiar-Branco also announced that 12 Timorese military would join the Portuguese 13-15 September (Port-Villa): contingent in the United Nations Interim Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, accompanied Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) as of January 2012. by Foreign Minister Zacarias Albano da Gusmão also took the opportunity to meet with Costa, visited Vanuatu where he met with the Timorese community in Portugal. his counterpart Sato Kilman and President Iolu Johnson Abil, to thank the country for their contribution to the struggle for the independence of Timor Leste. Gusmão also took the opportunity to donate US$500.000 to the Vanuatu-based secretariat of the Melanesian Spearheaded Group.

15 September (Díli): Minister Counselor and Special Envoy of President Mohamed Abdelaziz of the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic Maulainin Sedik met with President José Ramos-Horta. The latest developments in the negotiations between the Polisario and Morocco were high on the agenda.

17 September (Díli): Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão met with senior Chinese political advisor Li Jinhua, with the improvement of bilateral relations high on the agenda. Jinhua also took the opportunity to meet with President José Ramos-Horta, National Parliament President Fernando ‘Lasama’ de Araújo and former Prime Minister Mari Alkatiri.

19-23 September (New York): Prime Minister Xanana Gusmão, as well as Foreign Minister Zacarias da Costa, attended the opening of the 66th UN General Assembly. Gusmão also took the opportunity to hold several bilateral meetings with other world leaders, including UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 15

Editor | Paulo Gorjão assistant editorS | Kai Thaler • Laura Tereno • Pedro Seabra DESIGN | Atelier Teresa Cardoso Bastos PRINTING | Europress

Portuguese Institute of International Relations and Security (IPRIS) Rua Vitorino Nemésio, 5 - 1750-306 Lisboa PORTUGAL http://www.ipris.org email: [email protected]

IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin is a publication of IPRIS. The opinions expressed are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of IPRIS. IPRIS Lusophone Countries Bulletin | 16