This visit to São Tomé and Príncipe marked a significant step in strengthening the collaboration between the UK and São Tomé and Príncipe. During his visit, Ambassador Bharat Joshi met with President Carlos Vila Nova, Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada, and other key officials to discuss ongoing projects and future initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development.
In addition to diplomatic meetings, Ambassador Joshi engaged with Chevening alumni, underscoring the importance of education and international leadership. As part of the UK’s commitment to women’s empowerment, he also delivered health and hygiene kits to young women.
UK Ambassador, Bharat Joshi and the President of the Republic of São Tomé and Príncipe, Carlos Vila Nova at the accreditation ceremony.
Reflecting on his visit, Ambassador Bharat Joshi stated:
I presented my Diplomatic Credentials—a formal letter from King Charles III recommending me as the United Kingdom Ambassador—to His Excellency the President of São Tomé and Príncipe. This ancient tradition, which dates back thousands of years to when Hittite and Egyptian Kings exchanged letters supporting their envoys, is rich in protocol. The ceremony included an inspection of the Presidential Guard, red carpets, and introductions to the Head of State’s Cabinet. It was a powerful reminder of the honour I have to represent the British Government and lead our diplomatic relationship with international partners like São Tomé and Príncipe (STP).
I discussed with the President and his Ministers the UK’s support for Small Island Developing States (SIDS), our ambitions for COP29, and the historic support the UK has provided to STP. We explored ways to deepen bilateral relations, including support for clean energy generation, green tourism, professional training, and English language initiatives, as well as fostering more people-to-people connections—building on the strong ties of the 20,000 São Tomeans who now call the UK home.
The following week, Ambassador Joshi had the honour of presenting his credentials to Angolan President João Lourenço.
UK Ambassador, Bharat Joshi and President of the Republic of Angola, João Lourenço.
Reflecting on his meeting with President João Lourenço, Ambassador Bharat Joshi stated:
After presenting my credentials to President Lourenço, we had a productive discussion on deepening trade and investment ties, with a particular focus on sustainable development initiatives. I am delighted to be in Angola and look forward to immersing myself in its rich culture and history in the times ahead.
Ambassador Joshi’s visit to São Tomé and Príncipe, where he was officially accredited, followed by his return to Angola, where he is now based and also accredited, reaffirms the UK’s commitment to fostering strong and sustainable bilateral relations with both nations.
Jonathan Das, 2nd Secretary; Sarah Jackson, Deputy Head of Mission; British Ambassador to Angola, British Joshi; President of the Republic of Angola, João Lourenço; Angolan Minister of Foreign Affairs (from left to right).