DIPLOMACY AND FOREIGN POLICY IN MOZAMBIQUE: THE FIRST POST-INDEPENDENCE GOVERNMENT - SAMORA MACHEL (1975-1986)

Abstract

The article analyzes diplomacy and foreign policy in the first independent Government of Mozambique. In the theoretical analysis, the perspective of concentric circles moved, seeing the internal, regional and international dimensions as interconnected and mutually influenced. As a methodology, bibliographic surveys and documentary research were used. Internally, the performance of the Samora Machel Government in the construction of the nation-state and responses to domestic conflicts were evaluated. At the regional level, Mozambique's relations with border countries were verified. Finally, the state's foreign policy on the continent and its international performance were observed. The Samora government adopted a Marxist-Leninist nationalist policy defined by the party-state and the country was experiencing armed RENAMO attacks that turned into civil-military war. In Southern Africa, Mozambique was a Frontline State (FLS) and founder of SADC, showing solidarity with neighboring peoples, supporting politically and militarily its African nationalist movements in the fight against white domination. In the international arena, the state opted for non-alignment and developed international activism against colonization and apartheid. Mozambican foreign policy and diplomacy have been proactive in the region and internationally, managing to move their soft power. However, the Executive Government faced internal difficulties, with political and economic failures due to the systematic destabilization promoted by neighboring South Africa and South Rhodesia, as well as refusing to recognize the state of war and to negotiate with RENAMO, seen as an extension of the regime's minority interests in the region.