Japan Dedicated to Supporting Zambia’s Sustainable and Self-Reliant Growth
Zambia has reaffirmed its strong and growing bilateral relations with Japan, as the government extended congratulations to His Majesty the Emperor of Japan on the occasion of his 66th birthday and Japan’s National Day celebrations.
Speaking while officiating at the National Day reception held at the Japanese Ambassador’s Residence, Minister of Community Development and Social Services Doreen Mwamba highlighted the longstanding and progressive relationship between the two countries.
“Zambia and Japan have enjoyed progressive relations over the years, and our potential for further partnerships through joint ventures of mutual interest remains evident,” Ms Mwamba said.
The Minister underscored opportunities to deepen cooperation in trade and investment, renewable energy, information and communication technology (ICT), and other priority sectors.
She noted that these prospects were strengthened following the visit by Hakainde Hichilema to Japan last year, which resulted in the signing of key bilateral agreements, including Memoranda of Understanding on Investment Promotion and Protection and the establishment of Political Consultations.
Ms Mwamba expressed Zambia’s readiness to commence preparations for the inaugural session of the Political Consultations with Japan, aimed at enhancing collaboration while promoting trust and transparency in bilateral relations.
She further acknowledged Japan’s longstanding support to Zambia in critical sectors such as education, health, water and sanitation, transport, energy, agriculture, infrastructure development, sports, and private sector growth.
Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, Mikami Akiteru, reaffirmed his country’s commitment to strengthening Japan–Zambia relations.
He highlighted the significant contributions made by Japan Overseas Cooperation Volunteers under the Japan International Cooperation Agency, as well as non-governmental organisations that have supported communities across Zambia for more than five decades.
Mr Mikami reiterated Japan’s continued commitment to supporting Zambia’s sustainable and resilient economic growth.
“Japan’s commitment to Zambia’s sustainable development and self-reliant growth remains firm,” he said. “We are dedicated to continuing our cooperation across a broad range of vital sectors, including mining, health, agriculture, and the private sector.”
