China-Zambia Partnership Flourishes with Expanded Cooperation in 2024
The Chinese government has affirmed its commitment to further collaboration with Zambia in 2024, building on the significant achievements of the China-Zambia cooperation in 2023.
Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Du Xiaohui, highlighted the tremendous potential seen in the China-Zambia business cooperation during an event at the Chinese embassy.
Ambassador Xiaohui emphasized the remarkable progress in China-Zambia relations in 2023, marked by an upgrade to a comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership.
President Hakainde Hichilema and Chinese President Xi Jinping elevated bilateral ties, designating 2024 as the Year of China-Zambia Business Cooperation.
According to Xiaohui, Zambia’s exports to China in 2023 amounted to $4.39 billion, while China’s exports to Zambia reached around $1 billion. China’s direct investment in Zambia surpassed $178.6 million by October 2023, exceeding the total for the entire year of 2022.
The Ambassador unveiled plans for the Year of China-Zambia Business Cooperation, aiming to establish an open, inclusive, and pragmatic cooperation platform. Scheduled events include the China-Zambia High-Quality Development Forum on May 15, involving nearly 200 Chinese businesses.
Economic and trade expos and investment promotion activities will be organized in collaboration with various Zambian provinces.
The 2024 China-Africa Private Sector Cooperation Forum (FOCAC Sub-forum) will further enhance trade and economic relations. Xiaohui emphasized the goal of fostering common development through a chain of events and promoting high-quality investment promotion services.
President Hakainde Hichilema, represented by the Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry, Chipoka Mulenga, expressed appreciation for the consistent high records in China-Zambia bilateral ties over the past 60 years.
Notable cooperative projects, such as Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Levy Mwanawasa Hospital, and Kafue Gorge Lower Hydropower Station, have significantly contributed to Zambia’s economic development.
President Hichilema highlighted the upcoming 2024 business cooperation activities, focusing on deepening economic and trade cooperation and fostering people-to-people and cultural exchanges.
Encouraging Zambian Small and Medium Enterprises to seize opportunities in the upgraded bilateral relationship, he emphasized engaging with Chinese counterparts to boost exports to China.
The Zambian government pledged to introduce more favorable policies, welcoming increased Chinese investments in Zambia as both nations look forward to furthering their mutually beneficial relationship.
Source: ZANIS
