Zambia and Botswana Hold Senior Officials Meeting Ahead of Inaugural Bi-National Commission
Zambia and Botswana have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation through structured dialogue, as senior officials from both nations convened today in Lusaka for a preparatory meeting ahead of the inaugural session of the Bi-National Commission (BNC).
The Zambian delegation was led by Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, while His Excellency Mr. Alpheus Mathlaku, High Commissioner of the Republic of Botswana to Zambia, represented Botswana on behalf of Ambassador Thuso Ramodimoosi, Permanent Secretary in Botswana’s Ministry of International Relations.
The Senior Officials Meeting marks a significant step in preparing for the Ministerial Meeting and the formal launch of the BNC, which is scheduled to take place on August 1, 2025, in Lusaka.
In her opening remarks, Ms. Gundersen described the BNC as more than just a consolidation of existing cooperation mechanisms. “It is a deliberate step towards a structured, results-oriented, and forward-looking partnership,” she said, noting the shared vision of President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia and President Duma Gideon Boko of Botswana to harness bilateral cooperation as a tool for sustainable development, peace, and prosperity.
She praised the technical teams from both countries for their diligence in preparing for the sessions and urged them to lay a strong foundation for successful outcomes at the ministerial level.
Ambassador Mathlaku emphasized the importance of elevating the Joint Permanent Commission of Cooperation and the Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security into the Bi-National Commission.
He said the move will allow for more regular and structured engagements between the two countries, ensuring that all areas of mutual interest are effectively addressed.
The Ambassador also acknowledged the excellent state of bilateral relations, citing the Kazungula Bridge project as a flagship symbol of cooperation. He added that the meeting presents an opportunity to engage meaningfully and formulate solutions that advance the shared interests of Zambia and Botswana.
The Ministerial Session of the BNC is scheduled for July 31, 2025, at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, ahead of the official BNC launch on August 1.
