Chinese Premier Li Qiang is in Zambia for an official visit.
The premier arrived last night at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport and was received by Vice President Mutale Nalumango.
The media reports that upon arrival, the Chinese Premier declared Beijing’s intention to expand political, economic and diplomatic cooperation with Lusaka as the two countries mark more than half a century of bilateral ties.
Speaking at the Presidential Pavilion of Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, Mr Li said he was visiting at the invitation of President Hakainde Hichilema and delivered warm greetings and best wishes from the Chinese government and people.
Mr Li praised Zambia’s recent economic gains under President Hichilema’s administration, saying the country had pressed ahead with reform and development, maintained fast economic growth, and made remarkable achievements.
He said China was gratified by the progress and expressed confidence that Zambia would achieve even greater accomplishments on the road to development and revitalisation.
The Premier underscored the historical depth of the relationship between the two countries, noting that Zambia was the first country in Southern Africa to establish diplomatic ties with China.
He cited decades of mutual support between Beijing and Lusaka, including the legacy of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA)), built with Chinese assistance, as the foundation of what he called a “profound traditional friendship.”
Mr Li highlighted growing cooperation under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and President Hichilema, saying the two countries had strengthened political trust and advanced joint projects in various areas, setting an example for collaboration among developing nations.
He referred to President Hichilema’s meeting on the sidelines of the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation Summit in Beijing, where they agreed on steps to deepen the China–Zambia comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership.
He further noted that China was ready to expand investment, enhance people-to-people exchanges and support Zambia’s modernisation efforts.
Mr Li said China would work with Zambia to promote the interests of the Global South at a time of what he called “transformation and turbulence” on the world stage.
He emphasised cooperation on multilateral issues to maintain global order, safeguard international fairness and justice, and build a community with a shared future for humanity.
“In a world fraught with transformation and turbulence, China will also work with Zambia to strengthen communication and coordination on multilateral affairs and bring countries of the Global South together in maintaining global order, safeguarding international fairness and justice and building a community with a shared future for humanity,” he said.
Mr Li further reaffirmed long-term friendship between the two nations.
“May the China–Zambia friendship last forever. May our two countries enjoy an even brighter future,” Mr Li said.
