MUTATI DEFENDS HH’S UAE WORKING VISIT FORMER Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Felix Mutati has defended President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to undertake a working visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) instead of attending the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. Mr Mutati said President Hichilema’s decision should be viewed from the perspective […]

MUTATI DEFENDS HH’S UAE WORKING VISIT

FORMER Commerce, Trade and Industry Minister Felix Mutati has defended President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to undertake a working visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) instead of attending the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Mr Mutati said President Hichilema’s decision should be viewed from the perspective of the economic benefits each engagement offered Zambia, arguing that different foreign trips served different purposes.

He said UNGA remained an important diplomatic platform, but required significant public expenditure on travel, accommodation and allowances, while the President had ensured Zambia was represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Mr Mutati said the UAE visit was focused on attracting investment, expanding trade and securing business opportunities under the Government’s economic agenda.

“Trade between Zambia and the UAE has already grown to over US$2.24 billion,” he said.

He argued that direct engagement between the two governments could help finalise investment deals capable of generating jobs, increasing foreign exchange earnings and supporting sectors such as energy, mining and agriculture.

Mr Mutati said UAE investment in Zambia’s solar energy sector could contribute to increased power generation and help reduce load shedding, while investments in mining and agriculture could create employment opportunities for young people.

“True economic discipline is not about staying at home completely,” he said.

He added that government should prioritise foreign engagements capable of delivering tangible economic returns while maintaining Zambia’s diplomatic presence at major international forums.

“Skipping UNGA saves taxpayers money, while visiting the UAE brings direct investment to Zambia,” Mr Mutati said.

He further argued that the UAE engagement demonstrated a targeted approach to international relations and economic diplomacy.

“Every decision must bring clear benefits to the country,” he said.

Mr Mutati said criticism of the President’s decision should therefore be based on economic facts rather than political considerations.