Zambia and Burundi Strengthen Bilateral Ties at Joint Commission Meeting
The 5th Session of the Zambia-Burundi Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) of Cooperation concluded on 14th in Lusaka, marking a significant step forward in bilateral relations between the two African nations.
Co-chaired by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, SC, M.P, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, and His Excellency Ambassador Albert Shingiro, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Development Cooperation of Burundi, the three-day summit focused on enhancing cooperation across multiple sectors crucial to both countries’ development.
Key agreements were signed during the session, including a comprehensive General Cooperation Agreement, Memoranda of Understanding on Diplomatic and Political Consultations, Gender and Women Empowerment, and cooperation between Zambia Development Agency (ZDA) and the Burundi Agency of Development.
Additionally, a pivotal Agreement on Visa Waiver for holders of Diplomatic Passports was reached, aimed at facilitating easier travel between the two nations.
In his closing remarks, Hon. Haimbe underscored the importance of implementing the agreed-upon initiatives promptly to realise their full potential for both countries.
He expressed confidence that these decisions would strengthen the fraternal relations between Zambia and Burundi, laying a robust foundation for deeper integration.
Ambassador Shingiro echoed these sentiments, emphasising the shared values of democracy, freedom, human rights, and economic development that unite Zambia and Burundi.
He reaffirmed Burundi’s commitment to bolstering bilateral ties and highlighted the forthcoming 6th Session of the JPC, scheduled to be hosted by Burundi in 2026.
The successful conclusion of the 5th JPC session marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to enhance collaboration between Zambia and Burundi across various sectors, promising mutual benefits and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
