Zambia Reaffirms Commitment to SADC Stability and Global Peace
Norman Chipakupaku, the Permanent Secretary of Zambia’s Ministry of Defence has reiterated Zambia’s unwavering support for maintaining stability within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and promoting global peace initiatives.
During the 10th Session of the South Africa-Zambia Joint Defence Committee meeting held in Pretoria, South Africa, Chipakupaku emphasized Zambia’s dedication to fostering dialogue and cooperation to resolve conflicts within the region.
He highlighted the Zambian government’s belief that peace is vital for regional integration, stability, and economic prosperity.
Chipakupaku affirmed Zambia’s active involvement in complementing regional efforts to restore stability in northern Mozambique and eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, underscoring the country’s commitment to supporting a common position on SADC matters.
“Instability anywhere is instability everywhere,” Chipakupaku asserted, emphasizing the interconnectedness of global security challenges and the imperative of prioritizing dialogue in conflict resolution initiatives.
He also noted Zambia’s participation in peace and support operations, particularly under the auspices of the United Nations, with a presence in regions like the Central African Republic and Mozambique.
Expressing gratitude to the South African National Defence Force for its support to the Zambian Defence Forces, Chipakupaku emphasized the importance of strengthening bilateral relations through various instruments such as Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and implementation agreements.
Chipakupaku highlighted Zambia’s commitment to revitalizing its economy and entrenching democracy under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, creating an enabling environment for investment and partnerships across sectors including tourism.
In honoring the legacies of Nelson Mandela and Kenneth Kaunda, Chipakupaku underscored the shared duty of Zambia and South Africa to immortalize their contributions to liberation, peace, and servant leadership.
