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In 2009, Dr. Armandino Lopes signed an opinion piece in the weekly newspaper Sol, entitled “From Cooperation to Innovation”, in which he reflected on the evolution of the socio-economic realities of Portuguese-speaking African countries and the strategic role of cooperation in developing new growth opportunities.
In this text, it highlighted the relevance of Lusophony as a space of cultural, legal, and economic proximity, underlining the importance of dialogue, institutional stability, and in-depth knowledge of local contexts in promoting investment and collaboration between countries.
The publication of this article is a testament to the interest and attention that Dr. Armandino Lopes has dedicated, over the years, to international dynamics, cooperation between Lusophone markets, and economic development prospects in geographies with strong strategic potential.
Please find the article in full below.
From Cooperation to Innovation
Since the middle of the last decade, I have dedicated the greatest attention, especially in the business domain, to the evolution of the socio-economic realities of the continental African countries that, today too, are part of the CPLP.
As an international community of eight free and independent states, linked by Lusophony, the CPLP has established horizons for a new transcontinental economic community, historically rooted in a cultural heritage of ancestral relations, common interests, and language.
In the intense journey of the last five years, I have felt how daily verbal communication in a common mother tongue can bring different peoples closer and help their technicians in identifying, formulating, and solving problems, and in appeasing difficult issues.
A centuries-old, deeply ingrained societal mixing, perhaps intrinsic to the language, facilitates relationships and negotiations. It generates and consolidates a privileged status in frank dialogue. It goes beyond material gains, establishing bonds of friendship and making professional relationships more stimulating.
The economic development of countries such as Angola, Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau began slowly, based on foundations that, currently, require private initiative to adopt a modern stance: a new generation business profile. The political and social stability of these countries, which are moving towards democratic sustainability, is the essential factor for investment success. Radical changes have led to unforeseen situations and modified the structure of the economic system.
It is imperative to persist on the path of peace and reconciliation.
Another important structural factor, a second affinity, adds the essential benefit of a common language between these countries. The political-administrative, legislative, and jurisdictional organisation, and the legal order of the new countries, adhere to general, formal, and procedural principles similar to those of Portugal. This enhances the exchange of socio-professional experience and practices, recognising the validity of academic and scientific training in the four countries.
This reality ultimately embodies a reciprocal and advantageous potential, for businesses and investors, benefiting the populations of the countries in question with the desirable improvement of their living conditions and lifestyle.
Despite the critical moment we are going through, the success of some promising results is gratifying.
To face the current conjunctural difficulties, Portuguese-speaking Africa is an excellent way out. However, responsible, solid, competent, and dedicated support from professionals who know the reality and idiosyncrasies of each country is fundamental. Despite the obstacles, and with much that needs to be done, this is a sea we know, one we have already sailed, and I am convinced it will be our destiny in the 21st century, just as it was in the 15th century.
ARMANDINO LOPES (Solicitor)
