Luanda — The beginning of the national liberation struggle against Portuguese colonialism on 4 February, 1961 is very important for the Angolan Armed Forces (FAA), as it enabled the continuation of the battle that led to the achievement of independence.

The fact was recognized Thursday in Luanda by deputy chief of General Staff of FAA for operational and development area, Gen. Jorge Barros, when speaking to the press on the sidelines of a lecture held at the Army Command on the anniversary.

Addressing generals, admirals, high ranking officers, captains and soldiers of the FAA, the General Jorge Barros stated that "this is the most important date in the country's history, because it has led to the national independence.

The lecture was run by the coordinator of the February 4 and Epic Survivor Committee, the retired Brigadier Bernardo Armando da Silva.

On February 4, 1961, patriots linked to the MPLA, launched an attack against the São Paulo's jails in Luanda, triggering the start of armed struggle that led to the proclamation of the independence of Angola, on November 11, 1975.

The southern Cunene province will host the central event of the 52nd anniversary of national independence on 4 February.