Ehrenstein|Sager Wins on Behalf of the Republic of Angola for the Fourth Time

We are thrilled to announce a recent ruling from the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals affirming the dismissal of a $1.1 billion lawsuit against the Republic of Angola.

Ehrenstein|Sager’s representation has led to the dismissal of plaintiff Aenergy, S.A.’s claims in New York federal district court as affirmed by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, and more recently by the United States District Court for the District of Columbia as recently affirmed by the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals.

All four courts agreed that the dispute must be litigated in the courts of Angola.

In its opinion, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals noted the cost and inconvenience with litigating Aenergy’s claims in U.S. courts stating that “the new complaint still pertains to Angolan contracts governed by Angolan law and implicates both documents that would need translation from Portuguese and witnesses who would need interpreters.”

The court also emphasized the fact that Aenergy could pursue eight other claims in the courts of Angola, stating further that the proper forum analysis is whether a party can bring a claim, not whether it shall prevail.

This win highlights Ehrenstein|Sager’s international litigation skills, underscoring the firm’s inclusion and recognition in the Chambers Spotlight Florida 2025 Guide for excellence in international law.