Zambia insists on fair terms in international agreements

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe said the country will not accept conditions that place it at a disadvantage, stressing that all partnerships must prioritise national interests.

His remarks follow comments made by outgoing United States Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales during a farewell event in Lusaka on April 30, 2026, which government has described as inaccurate and undiplomatic.

Haimbe said negotiations on a proposed US$2 billion health cooperation agreement are still ongoing, with government placing strong emphasis on safeguarding sensitive information such as citizens’ medical data.

He noted that Zambia cannot agree to any terms that may compromise privacy, adding that such issues are guided by the Constitution and are being carefully reviewed.

The Minister also clarified that discussions on a proposed critical minerals agreement remain at an early stage, with no final decisions made.

He stressed that Zambia will not accept arrangements that grant preferential treatment to any country or company, insisting that the country’s mineral resources must benefit all citizens.

Haimbe further raised concern over attempts to link separate agreements, warning against making one deal conditional on the conclusion of another.

“A further concern by the Zambian Government is the coupling of the proposed agreements and frameworks to one another,” he said, adding that suggestions to the contrary were misleading.

Government emphasised that the pace of negotiations reflects due diligence rather than reluctance to cooperate.

On governance issues, Haimbe said Zambia has made notable progress in the fight against corruption, citing over 150 arrests in health-related theft cases and multiple convictions already secured.

He reaffirmed government’s commitment to transparency, accountability and protecting national interests in all international engagements.