Angolan journalist explains why he recommends all his colleagues to visit the National Centre RUSSIA

Sometimes, a return visit is needed to gain a full impression of a place and discover things that may have gone unnoticed the first time. Armindo Fragoso Laureano, Director General and Editor-in-Chief of Angola's Novo Jornal, shared his impressions of returning to the National Centre RUSSIA. He first visited the National Centre in October 2025, when he took part in the International Cooperation Forum marking the centenary of the institution of people's diplomacy. However, he did not have time to tour the "Journey Across Russia" exposition or explore the Centre's other spaces. This time, he was able to do so for the first time and was pleasantly surprised.

"Last year, I did not take a tour of the National Centre, as I only took part in the business programme. This time, with more time at my disposal, I was delighted to explore the space and take a wonderful tour of the 'Journey Across Russia', which really surprised and impressed me. I have always known that Russians respect their history and take great pride in it, and this tour taught me even more about your history, culture and regions,” Armindo Fragoso Laureano said.

According to the visiting journalist, relations between Russia and Angola are built on a solid foundation, and the people of his country take great pride in their historical ties with Russia. Armindo Fragoso Laureano noted that Angolans deeply appreciate and gratefully remember the substantial assistance and support Russia provided to Angola's liberation movement before the country gained independence. In addition, many Angolans, including heads of state, received higher education at Soviet and Russian universities. On 8 October 2026, the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Friendship and Cooperation between the USSR and Angola was marked.

"Many people in Angola speak Russian very well and know your history, culture and achievements. According to the Russian Embassy in Angola, more than 350 Angolan students come to Russia on exchange programmes every year. When I was a child, I heard a lot about Yuri Gagarin and Laika the dog, and the USSR national football team was very well known in Africa back then. Now, the National Centre will be another lasting impression of my visit to Russia. I will certainly tell my friends and colleagues: when you are in Moscow, make sure you come here. You will not only meet interesting people, but also embark on a journey through history, culture and achievements with an excellent guide. This place is amazing. I am very happy to be here again, and I will take home many vivid memories,” Armindo Fragoso Laureano concluded.

Armindo Fragoso Laureano, Director General and Editor-in-Chief of Novo Jornal, was among the participants at the International Press Centre set up at the National Centre RUSSIA during the Eighth Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum and the Third Russia-Africa Summit. These major events brought together representatives of Russia and African countries to discuss key areas of cooperation.