Zambia, China Deepen Cultural Ties with Peony Pavilion Launch in Lusaka
Zambia and China today reaffirmed their longstanding diplomatic and cultural partnership with the official completion and handover of the Third Overseas Peony Pavilion, constructed at Levy Mwanawasa Medical Hospital along the Zambia–China Friendship Road in Lusaka.
The high-level event, hosted by the Ministry of Tourism, brought together Zambian government officials, Chinese dignitaries, and local community leaders in a celebration of bilateral cooperation. The pavilion, inspired by classical Chinese architecture and aesthetics, is set to become a hub for cultural exchange and tourism in Zambia.
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney M. Sikumba, hailed the Pavilion as a powerful symbol of growing ties between the two countries.
“The Peony Pavilion is more than just a structure—it symbolizes the flourishing friendship and cultural connection between Zambia and China,” Hon. Sikumba said. “It enriches our tourism offering and creates space for learning, interaction, and the celebration of diversity.”
He also revealed plans for future collaborations, including a proposed “Happy Land”-style cultural park to promote inclusive and family-friendly tourism.
Guest of Honour, Hon. Gift Sialubalo, Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, praised the Chinese partnership, highlighting infrastructural contributions such as the rehabilitation of the Chainama PHI Road.
“This initiative exemplifies how meaningful international cooperation can transform communities,” said Hon. Sialubalo.
Vice Governor of Jiangxi Province, His Excellency Xia Wenyong, described the pavilion as a testament to the “warm friendship” between the people of Zambia and China. He expressed China’s ongoing interest in cultural, tourism, and infrastructure partnerships.
His Excellency Han Jing, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, emphasized that people-to-people connectivity remains central to China’s development cooperation with Zambia.
“Zambia is an important friend and partner. Initiatives like this Pavilion form part of our broader strategy to enhance bilateral ties,” said Ambassador Han.
Zhang Jian, President of the Zambia Chinese Association, reiterated the Association’s commitment to Zambia’s growth agenda, citing both the Pavilion and the Chainama road improvement project as outcomes of shared vision and mutual respect.
The Ministry of Tourism also announced that Zambia’s Tourism Investment Guide has now been translated into Chinese—a strategic move aimed at increasing Chinese investment and visitor numbers.
The ceremony concluded with a guided tour of the Pavilion, which is expected to become a prominent cultural landmark and tourism attraction in Lusaka.
