HH seeks China support to boost economy, job creation
By Tony Nkhoma
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has called on China to deepen its support for Zambia’s economic recovery efforts to help spur job creation and expand business opportunities for citizens.
Speaking at State House when he hosted visiting Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang, who is in Zambia for a two-day working visit, President Hichilema said strengthening economic cooperation remained a shared path of interest between the two nations.
“It’s a path of common interest for us, acknowledging the One China Policy, which we maintain. We are walking a path that will offer great opportunities for our citizens…jobs, businesses, and more,” President Hichilema said.
He praised the historic and enduring relationship between Zambia and China, recalling landmark projects such as the TAZARA railway, built in the 1970s to link Zambia to the Indian Ocean at a time when southern routes were inaccessible.
“The Chinese people took a decision to support their brothers and sisters in Zambia by constructing TAZARA, which opened our trade route to the sea,” he said.
Hichilema said Li ’s visit came at a crucial moment as the two countries upgraded their bilateral ties, with the rehabilitation of the TAZARA line marking the highest level of partnership.
“We are delighted that you are here as we sign the commencement of TAZARA railway rehabilitation to improve the integrity and capability of that line,” he said.
In response, Prime Minister Li applauded Zambia’s reform agenda, describing the country’s landscape, people, and investment climate as favourable for development.
“China is very happy for Zambia, and we congratulate Zambia. China is a good brother, a good friend, and a good partner of Zambia,” Li said.
He reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening political trust and cooperation.
“We want to work with Zambia to advance modernization and build an even stronger China–Zambia community with a shared future, delivering greater benefits to our two peoples,” he said.
