Chinese President Xi Jinping expressed China's readiness to collaborate with Zambia in advancing modernization and strengthening friendly relations during his meeting with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in Beijing on Wednesday.
President Hichilema attended the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), marking a significant event as this year celebrates the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Zambia.
Xi emphasized the importance of utilizing the summit to propel both nations' modernization efforts and to initiate a new chapter in their bilateral relationship. He highlighted the continuous enhancement of mutual trust and the fruitful outcomes of their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership established last year.
The Chinese leader called for intensified exchanges at all levels, deeper political trust, expanded practical cooperation, and strengthened international coordination between the two countries. He also invited more Chinese enterprises to engage in Zambia's sectors such as new energy, water resources, and electricity, contributing to Zambia and Africa's industrialization and modernization processes.
Recognizing Zambia's pivotal role in establishing FOCAC in 2000, Xi pledged China's support in ensuring the summit's success and bolstering China-Zambia and China-Africa relations.
President Hichilema reflected on the progress made since his visit to China last year, including the signing of a memorandum on the revitalization of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) railway. He affirmed Zambia's adherence to the one-China principle and its commitment to deepening cooperation with China, welcoming increased Chinese investment.
Hichilema also praised China's leadership in promoting global peace and stability, expressing Zambia's willingness to collaborate closely with China on multilateral initiatives.
Reference(s):
Xi Jinping says China ready to join Zambia for new chapter of ties
cgtn.com
