Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Tobias Mulimbika, has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral trade and economic relations with the Republic of Namibia.
Dr Mulimbika made the remarks in Tokyo during a courtesy call by Namibia’s Ambassador-Designate to Japan, Ms Rosina Hoabes, held at the Zambian Mission.
The Ambassador noted that Zambia and Namibia continue to enjoy long-standing bilateral relations anchored on historical solidarity, particularly Zambia’s support during Namibia’s liberation struggle.
He said the two countries are now focused on deepening strategic cooperation in economic partnerships, infrastructure development, trade facilitation and regional security.
Dr Mulimbika emphasised that the presence of both diplomatic missions in Japan provides an opportunity to jointly promote investment in projects of mutual interest.
He cited the development of the Walvis Bay, Ndola, Lubumbashi Corridor and the Katima Mulilo One-Stop Border Post as critical infrastructure initiatives aimed at enhancing regional trade and the transit of goods and services.
Dr Mulimbika further underscored the importance of collaboration among Southern African diplomatic missions in Tokyo, including engagement with the Democratic Republic of Congo, to attract investment into strategic regional corridors and promote deeper economic integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
“I also call for increased trade and exports between Zambia and Namibia, noting the significant potential for both countries to leverage their strategic geographic positions and infrastructure to attract investment and stimulate regional growth,” he added.
In her remarks, Ambassador-Designate of Namibia Rosina Hoabes expressed appreciation for the warm reception and reaffirmed Namibia’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Zambia.
Ms Hoabes conveyed gratitude for Zambia’s historic role during Namibia’s liberation struggle and expressed optimism for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest.
The meeting reaffirmed the strong and cordial relations between the two countries and underscored their shared commitment to advancing economic diplomacy and regional development.
This is according to a statement issued to the media by the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia to Japan First Secretary Press and Public Relations, Faith Chilube.
