Canada returns Resident High Commissioner to Zambia

Canada has returned a resident High Commissioner to Zambia after more than 15 years, following President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for stronger diplomatic presence to deepen trade, investment and economic partnerships under the Grow Zambia agenda. Ministry of Information and…

Canada has returned a resident High Commissioner to Zambia after more than 15 years, following President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for stronger diplomatic presence to deepen trade, investment and economic partnerships under the Grow Zambia agenda.

Ministry of Information and Media Director of Spokesperson Henry Kapata said the development followed the presentation of credentials by eight new Ambassadors and High Commissioners to President Hichilema.

Mr Kapata said President Hichilema urged the diplomats to use economic diplomacy to translate Zambia’s improved economic stability into increased investment, trade and tourism opportunities.

He said Canada had committed to deepening economic cooperation with Zambia and promoting increased Canadian capital and investment in the country.

Mr Kapata said Guinea had also expressed commitment to strengthening bilateral relations and cooperation with Zambia, while Nigeria reaffirmed its longstanding ties with the country and conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s congratulations to President Hichilema.

He told ZANIS in Lusaka that Sweden had expressed support for Zambia’s economic reforms and continued cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

On the Netherlands, Mr Kapata said bilateral relations include the presence of more than 30 Dutch companies in Zambia, as well as cooperation in the green economy, water and sanitation and support for the Lobito Corridor.

“Finland has pledged support for the Grow Zambia agenda as Zambia and Finland prepare to mark 60 years of bilateral relations and UAE has committed to deepening bilateral relations, with Zambia’s trade with the UAE having more than quadrupled over the past three years,” he noted.

Mr Kapata further noted that Spain had expressed interest in expanding cooperation with Zambia in trade, science and technology, while also strengthening political dialogue.

The engagements come as Zambia moves from economic stabilisation towards growth, with the Government seeking to strengthen diplomatic and economic partnerships in support of investment, trade, tourism and production under the Grow Zambia agenda