Zambian Ambassador Presents Credentials to Albanian President, Discusses Bilateral Cooperation
Zambia’s Ambassador to the Republic of Italy and accredited to the Republic of Albania on a non-residential basis, Mrs. Patricia Chisanga Kondolo, presented her Letters of Credence to His Excellency Mr. Bajram Begaj, President of the Republic of Albania.
President Begaj expressed optimism that Ambassador Kondolo’s appointment would enhance bilateral relations between the two countries.
During the presentation, President Begaj proposed the initiation of political dialogue through the establishment of legal frameworks to boost political and economic cooperation.
He also suggested a phased visa waiver, starting with diplomatic and service visas, eventually extending to ordinary passport holders.
Ambassador Kondolo conveyed greetings from Zambian President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema and expressed optimism for increased cooperation at political, economic, and multilateral levels.
She highlighted agriculture, tourism, and energy sectors as potential areas for collaboration, especially given the current drought in Zambia affecting food and energy security.
President Begaj acknowledged the potential for collaboration in agriculture and energy and emphasized the need to address climate change, a global challenge.
On the sidelines, Ambassador Kondolo met with officials from the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to explore enhancing bilateral and multilateral cooperation dating back to 1969.
Discussions highlighted Zambia’s potential leadership role in the South/Central African region, given its membership in regional bodies like SADC and COMESA.
Both parties agreed to revive draft Cooperation Agreements related to visa waivers, double taxation, prevention of fiscal evasion, protection of investments, and economic cooperation.
They emphasized the importance of cooperation in addressing Zambia’s drought and energy challenges, including investment in solar, bio-fuel, and wind projects.
In a separate meeting, Ambassador Kondolo discussed trade and investment with Mr. Marin Gjonaj, Board Chairman of Gjonaj Group and CEO of InfoTelecom, which has business links with Zambia’s telecommunication operator Zamtel.
The Gjonaj Group expressed interest in enhancing trade and investment relations, particularly in the energy sector. Ambassador Kondolo pledged support from the Zambian Mission in Rome to facilitate these collaborative efforts.
