JOHANNESBURG

US President Joe Biden fulfilled his promise to visit Africa on Monday, landing in the West African island nation of Cape Verde on the first leg of a three-day trip to the continent, just a month before his term ends.

Biden met with Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva and discussed the growing US-Cabo Verdean relationship, which is bolstered by the archipelagic state’s vibrant diaspora in the US, as well as support for democratic freedoms and human rights, the White House said in a statement.

The two leaders also discussed strengthening their collaboration to increase climate resilience.

Biden, who will travel to Angola later on Monday, appreciated Cabo Verde for its unwavering support for Ukraine as it continues to defend itself against the Russian war.

He also appreciated the ongoing strength and value of US-Cabo Verdean cooperation in security and law enforcement issues.

Biden also reiterated his support for expanding the UN Security Council to include two permanent seats for African countries, which would increase global representation and help to address global issues.