Zambia and Switzerland Signs a Strategic Partnership with $50 Million Investment for Bilateral Cooperation
The Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Swiss Confederation solidified their commitment to collaborative development with the signing of a comprehensive agreement covering technical, cultural, financial, and economic cooperation, along with humanitarian assistance.
In a significant ceremony at Charter House in Lusaka on December 12th, 2023, Mrs. Hope K. Situmbeko, Permanent Secretary Administration of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, represented the Republic of Zambia, while His Excellency Mr. Stéphane Rey signed on behalf of the Swiss Confederation.
The agreement underscores a shared vision to promote projects that contribute to Zambia’s development processes, addressing social, environmental, and economic challenges. The focus is on mitigating the adverse effects of adjustment and providing support to the most vulnerable segments of Zambian society.
Mrs. Situmbeko, in her remarks, highlighted the historical and cordial bilateral relations between Zambia and Switzerland, based on shared values. She praised the collaborative efforts that led to the finalization of the Framework Agreement in June 2023 and emphasized the accord’s alignment with President Hakainde Hichilema’s emphasis on economic diplomacy and the goals outlined in the Eighth National Development Plan.
Expressing gratitude to Switzerland for designating Zambia as one of its priority countries for development cooperation from 2023 to 2026, Mrs. Situmbeko eagerly anticipated the implementation of the new strategy, viewing it as instrumental in consolidating relations between the two nations.
The Swiss Ambassador, in response, emphasized that the agreement would rejuvenate the strong ties and longstanding partnership between Zambia and Switzerland. He noted its alignment with President Hichilema’s priority of economic development and adherence to international frameworks such as the Paris Agreement and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The Ambassador highlighted the agreement’s significance in addressing global challenges, including climate change, and encouraged collaboration with various organizations to achieve Zambia’s ambitious goals.
Additionally, he announced Switzerland’s commitment to invest US$50 million in the bilateral cooperation program for Zambia, emphasizing the substantial potential for further collaboration between the two nations.
