Chinese Premier Li Qiang has expressed China’s willingness to collaborate closely with Zambia, further solidifying their bilateral relationship.
During a meeting with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in Beijing, Li emphasised the importance of implementing the consensus reached by the two nations’ heads of state. This collaborative effort aims to deepen their strategic alignment, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and elevate their relations to new heights.
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Shared Traditions and Common Interests
Premier Li noted the deep-rooted tradition of friendship between China and Zambia and their extensive common interests. Despite the evolving global landscape, the two countries have bolstered their political mutual trust. Their practical cooperation has grown closer, serving as a positive example of solidarity and coordination among developing nations.
Highlighting their partnership on the path of development, Premier Li underscored China’s commitment to collaborating with Zambia to build the Belt and Road Initiative. Moreover, they aim to implement the outcomes of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation and the China-Africa Leaders’ Dialogue. These efforts are set to reinforce the strategic and sustainable nature of their bilateral cooperation.
Diversifying Collaboration for Mutual Growth
Premier Li encouraged China and Zambia to expand and strengthen their cooperation in established sectors such as mining and infrastructure development. However, he also emphasised the importance of creating new avenues for collaboration. These include green development, the digital economy, and industrial and agricultural modernization. By diversifying their partnership, China and Zambia can pursue a path of modernization that embodies mutual assistance and the shared revitalization of developing nations.
Premier Li urged both nations to enhance their mutual understanding and support. This unity is vital for safeguarding the common interests of China, Zambia, and all developing countries. The Premier’s emphasis on cooperation and collaboration underlines China’s commitment to fostering strong international relationships.
President Hichilema reaffirmed the enduring friendship between Zambia and China, describing it as unwavering. Zambia’s commitment to the one-China principle remains steadfast. The President expressed Zambia’s readiness to deepen collaboration with China across various sectors, including industry, tourism, agriculture, the economy, trade, science, and technology. These collaborations are seen as essential for achieving sustainable development.
President Hichilema addressed misconceptions about China’s involvement, explicitly rejecting the “China debt trap” and “economic decoupling” narratives. Zambia stands firm in its determination to work closely with China to advance shared development goals. This stance reflects Zambia’s commitment to mutual progress.
A Shared Vision for the Future
The meeting between Premier Li Qiang and President Hakainde Hichilema highlights the strength and resilience of China-Zambia relations. By focusing on strategic alignment, diversifying collaboration, and fostering mutual understanding, the two nations aim to enhance their partnership for the benefit of their peoples and all developing countries. This united approach exemplifies the spirit of international cooperation and solidarity, ensuring a brighter future for both China and Zambia.
Zambia-China ties in the tech space
Meanwhile, in line with fostering ties with China, President Hichilema visited the headquarters of leading telecom company Huawei, where he observed a talent programme that trains young Zambians for careers in information and communication technology, or ICT.
He shared his high expectations for the results Zambia can achieve with improved ties with China.
According to him, “we can do more, faster, because the needs are tremendous in Zambia. I heard some of the solutions are here. All we need to do is to combine the two together.”
Cyber security engineer Violet Nyakunzu expressed joy having met his nation’s leader saying “it was my first time to actually meet the president in person.”
He advised youngsters to participate in tech: “I really wanted to encourage the youth to take on such ICT programs, especially females, because where I come from, a lot of females think ICT is a male-dominated industry and that’s what shoes them away. But you need to face your fears head-on.”
