China and Zambia Strengthen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
On Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Zambian Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe in Beijing, marking a significant milestone in the longstanding friendship between the two nations. The meeting underscored the mutual commitment to deepen cooperation and elevate bilateral relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership.
Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, highlighted the historic ties between China and Zambia since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1964. He praised the enduring friendship and cooperation, exemplified by the construction of the TAZARA Railway in the 1970s. “The TAZARA Railway stands as a testament to the China-Africa brotherhood, demonstrating sincerity, affinity, and good faith through mutual development and revitalization,” Wang remarked.
The ministers discussed plans to reactivate the TAZARA Railway, which connects Dar es Salaam in Tanzania to Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia. Joint efforts to modernize the railway aim to enhance Zambia’s industrialization and turn its resource advantages into developmental momentum. “By coordinating comprehensive development along the railway line, we can help Zambia enhance its independent development capacity,” Wang stated.
Wang Yi expressed appreciation for Zambia’s adherence to the one-China principle and emphasized China’s readiness to consolidate mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation. He noted that China’s modernization drive would bring new opportunities to developing countries like Zambia. “China is willing to support Zambia in exploring a development path suited to its national conditions and advance its modernization process,” he added.
Looking ahead, Wang mentioned the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit to be held in Beijing in September. He expressed China’s willingness to work with African countries to make the event a success, further strengthening the China-Africa community with a shared future.
Zambian Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe affirmed the strong ties between the two countries. “Zambia and China are good brothers and partners with shared interests,” Haimbe said. He reiterated Zambia’s commitment to the one-China principle and support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Haimbe expressed gratitude for China’s contributions to Zambia’s development, particularly the TAZARA Railway, and emphasized the desire to reactivate it to build a bridge of friendship and accelerate development. He welcomed increased Chinese investment in Zambia and highlighted opportunities for cooperation in agriculture, energy, and mining.
As the two nations approach the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, both sides agreed to seize this opportunity to push for greater development of their comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership. They also pledged to strengthen communication and coordination on international and regional affairs.
Reference(s):
Chinese foreign minister hails friendship, mutual support with Zambia
cgtn.com
