Hichilema underscores the importance of diplomatic ties

President Hakainde Hichilema says diplomacy is a critical tool in achieving the Grow Zambia Agenda, as it nurtures mutually beneficial relations for countries. President Hichilema has underscored Zambia’s focus on growth in his second term, noting that diplomatic relationships…

President Hakainde Hichilema says diplomacy is a critical tool in achieving the Grow Zambia Agenda, as it nurtures mutually beneficial relations for countries.

President Hichilema has underscored Zambia’s focus on growth in his second term, noting that diplomatic relationships are critical for mutually beneficial economic development.

The Head of State said this in a speech read for him by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe at the United Nations General Assembly, in New York.

“Diplomatic relations mean new markets for our farmers, new partners for our investment drive and new friends for Zambia in the institutions that shape the global economy,’’ he stressed.

This is contained a statement issued to the media in Lusaka by First Secretary for Press at the Permanent Mission of Zambia to the UN, Namatama Njekwa, Zambia signed Joint Communiqués with Uruguay and Vanuatu.

Ms Njekwa revealed that the agreements open avenues for cooperation in agriculture, livestock, climate change adaptation, eco-tourism, trade, and investment.

She stated that Zambia also held talks with Malawi, agreeing to enhance collaboration in trade, energy, infrastructure, and connectivity, including Malawi’s interest in the Lobito Development Corridor.

Ms Njekwa further indicated that Zambia also held talks with Cuba where the two countries reaffirmed their longstanding friendship and solidarity, pledging continued cooperation in health, education, and multilateral coordination.

She added that Zambia also exchanged support with Cuba for respective candidatures to the UN Human Rights Council and other committees.

Ms Njekwa revealed that the Zambian delegates further engaged UN officials, focusing on rule of law, human rights, misinformation, and the country’s cooperation with the UN development system.

She however stated that Minister of Health, Roma Chilengi participated in the launch of the Accra Reset High-Level Panel report on reforming global health governance, which aligns with Zambia’s principle of strengthening national priorities through international cooperation.

Ms Njekwa further disclosed that Zambia will co-host the follow-up meeting on the Sevilla Commitment on Wednesday, with additional bilateral engagements on investment, energy, and infrastructure scheduled throughout the week.

The Assembly is convened under the theme “Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”