President Hichilema applauds China’s Opening of Domestic Market to Zambian Goods

President Hakainde Hichilema has hailed the opening of China’s domestic market to Zambian goods, noting that the Government is now focused on fostering investments that enable joint ventures between Zambia and China to serve the Chinese market.

Speaking during bilateral talks with the visiting Premier of the State Council of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Li Qiang at State House today, President Hichilema said the upgrading of Zambia–China relations to a Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership has led to a surge in joint initiatives that are advancing the economic and social development of both countries.

He highlighted that key investments have been made in sectors such as mining and energy.

The President noted that the enduring relationship between Zambia and China, which spans nearly 60 years, has yielded significant achievements, including the construction of the TAZARA Railway, and continues to thrive through partnerships across multiple sectors.

“The intention is to offer greater opportunities for our people in jobs and business. Investments such as the revitalisation of TAZARA are opening up the country and the region to business. Zambia is well-positioned to add value for both domestic and regional markets,” President Hichilema said.

He also thanked China for its support in Zambia’s debt restructuring programme.

President Hichilema further congratulated President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on the successful conclusion of the 20th Central Committee’s Fourth Plenary Session of the Communist Party of China, which approved the 15th Five-Year Economic and Social Development Plan.

In response, Premier Li Qiang commended Zambia for pursuing reforms and growing the economy, which he said had resulted in notable milestones.

He reaffirmed China’s commitment to working with Zambia to advance the cause of modernisation and to deepen the China–Zambia relationship, anchored in a shared future that delivers tangible benefits to the people of both nations.

Premier Li emphasised that China has consistently demonstrated its friendship with Zambia and pledged to further strengthen bilateral ties through ongoing partnerships.

“China is a true friend of Zambia and is committed to cementing political mutual trust, firmly supporting each other’s core interests, and steadily enriching our strategic cooperative partnership. Zambia is the first sub-Saharan country I have visited since assuming office as Premier,” Mr. Li said.

He added that China is ready to work closely with Zambia and looks forward to continued dialogue on matters of mutual interest.