Zambia and DRC to Hold Urgent Talks Following Border Closure
A delegation of Zambian government officials is set to meet with their counterparts from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) today in Lubumbashi to address the temporary closure of the border between the two nations.
The closure, which was enforced by Zambia, has disrupted trade and raised concerns about its economic impact on both countries.
Zambia’s Minister of Commerce, Chipoka Mulenga, expressed optimism that the talks would lead to a swift resolution and the reopening of the borders. “What Zambia seeks is peace at the borders, allowing for the free flow of trade,” Mr. Mulenga stated.
He emphasized that the closure was not related to political disagreements but was instead a response to recent trade restrictions imposed by the DRC government on certain Zambian products.
Minister Mulenga revealed that his DRC counterpart had reached out to discuss potential solutions to the issue.
“We have worked together as friends for many years, and I am confident that we will find a way forward that benefits both our nations,” he said during a press briefing at the Kasumbalesa border, just before crossing into the DRC for the meeting.
Copperbelt Minister Elisha Matambo also addressed the situation, urging people not to exploit the border closure for political gain.
He assured the public that there is peace at all border points shared between Zambia and the DRC and reiterated that the primary goal of today’s meeting is to resolve the trade dispute.
The closure has raised concerns about the economic impact on both Zambia and the DRC, as trade between the two nations is significant.
Source: ZNBC Today
