Zambia and India Hold 4th Foreign Office Consultations in Lusaka
Zambia and India recently co-chaired the 4th Foreign Office Consultations in Lusaka, with Permanent Secretary of International Relations and Cooperation, Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, and Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs of India, Shri Puneet Roy Kundal, leading the discussions.
The main objective of the meeting was to assess and enhance the existing bilateral relations and cooperation between the two countries. Key topics of discussion included political relations, development partnership, trade and economy, digital technology, agriculture, health, defense, consular, and cultural issues. Both sides also exchanged views on continued cooperation at the multilateral level in organizations like the United Nations.
During the closing session, Ms. Gundersen emphasized the shared commitment to strengthening bilateral and multilateral cooperation across various sectors. She highlighted key areas for collaboration and encouraged both parties to take actionable steps in preparation for the Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation (JPC) scheduled for November 2024.
Ms. Gundersen also expressed gratitude to the Government of India for pledging a donation of 100 solar irrigation systems to help mitigate the effects of the drought emergency in Zambia.
Shri Kundal acknowledged the strength of the enduring relations between Zambia and India, noting the fruitful discussions and agreements on major mutual interests.
He reiterated India’s commitment to Zambia as a valued partner and emphasized the importance of regular consultations at official and political levels to strengthen cooperation. Shri Kundal also looked forward to the next JPC between the two countries.
Accompanying Ms. Gundersen were Zambia’s High Commissioner, His Excellency Mr. Percy Chanda, and other government officials, while India’s High Commissioner to Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Ashok Kumar, and senior officials represented the Indian side.
