Zambia’s Ambassador to China Strengthens Ties in Credential Ceremony
Zambia’s Ambassador to China, His Excellency Dr. Ivan Zyuulu, reaffirmed the strong ties between Zambia and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) during a formal credentials presentation at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the PRC Headquarters on August 15, 2023.
Ambassador Zyuulu highlighted the enduring relations between the two nations, which have thrived for over 56 years. Tracing back to the pre-independence era, he credited the solid foundation set by Chairman Mao and Zambia’s founding President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.
The evidence of these longstanding bonds is visible through infrastructural landmarks like the TAZARA Railway line, which connects Zambia to Tanzania’s port of Dar-es-salaam, alongside multiple other projects, including airports, roads, sports stadia, schools, and hospitals, generously supported by China.
Zyuulu emphasized the progression of this bond, attributing it to initiatives such as the Belt and Road and the Forum on China Africa Cooperation (FOCAC). These endeavors have exponentially enhanced both economic and cultural links between the countries.
Reassuring China of Zambia’s commitment, the Ambassador stated, “The New Dawn Zambian Government is keen on fostering a partnership with the Chinese Government and its investors for mutually beneficial cooperation.”
The Director-General of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China reflected this sentiment, labeling Zambia and China as “all-weather friends”. He lauded their shared achievements, specifically noting the construction of the Tazara railway line as a beacon of this enduring friendship.
Moreover, the Director-General underlined the countries’ collaborative approach, especially evident in their combined efforts against challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic. He also recalled a significant phone conversation from June 2022 between Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema and Chinese President Xi Jinping, which further solidified their bilateral ties.
Both nations, with this event, seem poised for an even stronger future relationship, continuing their mutual journey of growth and collaboration.
