Hichilema to visit Harare for inaugural Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission

Hichilema to visit Harare for inaugural Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission

President Hakainde Hichilema is set to undertake his first official State Visit to the Republic of Zimbabwe on 14 November 2025 at the invitation of President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, in a historic engagement marking the beginning of an upgraded framework of cooperation between the two countries.

The visit will centre on the inaugural session of the Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC), which elevates the long-standing Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) into a higher mechanism for strategic collaboration. The BNC aims to enhance bilateral coordination in areas such as trade, energy, transport, and infrastructure development, while also advancing political, social, and cultural relations between the two neighbouring states.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, President Hichilema’s visit signifies Zambia’s commitment to strengthening regional diplomacy and expanding cross-border partnerships that contribute to inclusive economic growth across Southern Africa.

The ministry said the new Bi-National Commission will serve as the main platform for the two Heads of State to review and guide implementation of joint programmes and initiatives agreed upon by their respective governments.
“The establishment of the BNC underscores the shared vision of Presidents Hichilema and Mnangagwa to promote bilateral cooperation, accelerate shared infrastructure projects, and foster economic integration between Zambia and Zimbabwe,” the statement read.

The BNC process will begin with a Meeting of Senior Officials on 12 November 2025, followed by a Ministerial Meeting on 13 November 2025 to finalise documentation and policy frameworks ahead of the high-level summit between the two Presidents. These preliminary sessions will form the technical foundation for the agreements expected to be signed during the inaugural Bi-National Commission.

The government said the Commission will focus on strategic sectors that hold long-term benefits for both nations, particularly in energy generation and transmission, cross-border trade facilitation, water resource management, and transport corridors.
“Zambia and Zimbabwe have shared assets of immense regional significance,” the statement added, citing the Kariba Dam, Victoria Falls, and joint transport infrastructure such as roads and railways that link the two economies.

The Ministry noted that both governments recognise the importance of harmonised policy approaches to unlock the full potential of these shared assets, especially in energy and tourism. “These are vital enablers of industrialisation and sustainable development that benefit not just Zambia and Zimbabwe but the wider SADC region,” it said.

Officials said the BNC represents a step forward in formalising economic diplomacy and fostering mutual investment opportunities, in line with President Hichilema’s policy of regional cooperation and open engagement. The visit is also expected to reaffirm Zambia’s role in promoting peace, stability, and integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

In addition to economic priorities, the BNC will also discuss cross-border security cooperation, trade facilitation, environmental conservation, and cultural exchange.
Both nations are expected to review progress on existing bilateral agreements and outline new areas of partnership under the enhanced framework.

“The BNC embodies the enduring bonds of friendship, shared history, and mutual respect that unite Zambia and Zimbabwe,” the ministry said. “The two countries are bound not only by geography but also by cultural and familial ties that span generations. This relationship has remained strong through years of political transition and economic reform on both sides.”

Diplomatic analysts view this meeting as a major milestone in regional cooperation, noting that it places Zambia and Zimbabwe in a stronger position to leverage joint development opportunities under continental frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The government emphasised that President Hichilema’s visit demonstrates Zambia’s unwavering commitment to advancing its foreign policy objectives through constructive engagement.
“President Hichilema’s approach to international relations continues to emphasise dialogue, partnership, and economic diplomacy as key drivers of inclusive growth,” the statement said. “This visit provides an opportunity to consolidate progress already made under the New Dawn administration’s regional and continental cooperation agenda.”

Officials also confirmed that the visit will include a state banquet in honour of President Hichilema hosted by President Mnangagwa, alongside ceremonial proceedings in Harare. Delegations from both countries will include ministers, technocrats, and business leaders tasked with steering the implementation of BNC resolutions.

The Ministry concluded that Zambia remains firmly committed to deepening its bilateral relations with Zimbabwe and pursuing development models rooted in mutual benefit. “We view this visit as a reaffirmation of the two countries’ shared aspirations for prosperity and progress, built upon trust, respect, and cooperation,” it said.

The Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission will henceforth meet on a biennial basis, alternating between Lusaka and Harare, to review progress and refine implementation strategies in all areas of cooperation.