LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Zambia on Wednesday night, embarking on an official visit designed to strengthen the long-standing ties between the two nations.

He was warmly received at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) in Lusaka by Vice President Mutale Nalumango, senior Zambian officials, and representatives of the Chinese Embassy.

The visit represents a historic moment, being the first official trip by a Chinese head of government to Zambia in nearly three decades.

It is also Premier Li’s first engagement in a sub-Saharan African country since taking office.

Zambia and China have maintained diplomatic relations for more than sixty years, marked by landmark collaborations such as the construction of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway (TAZARA).

Their partnership has grown to include extensive cooperation in sectors such as energy, healthcare, mining, and industrial development.

Prior to the visit, China’s Ambassador to Zambia highlighted the desire to advance the consensus reached between President Hakainde Hichilema and President Xi Jinping.

The Ambassador also emphasized the importance of implementing decisions from the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Beijing Summit.

“This visit is meant to enhance political trust, promote mutually beneficial projects, and strengthen coordination on regional and international matters,” the Ambassador said.

He added that the visit further demonstrates the commitment to building an ‘All-Weather China–Africa Community with a Shared Future for the New Era.’

The ambassador reflected on the deep historical bond between the two nations, noting China’s support for Zambia during its liberation struggle.

China also played a pivotal role in constructing TAZARA, which helped break the economic isolation facing Zambia at the time.

He stressed that Chinese investments continue to contribute significantly to Zambia’s economic development and social progress.

In 2023, President Hakainde Hichilema visited China, where he and President Xi upgraded bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership.

This partnership ushered in a new era of engagement between the two countries.

Since that time, Zambia has witnessed the launch of several key projects, including the Lusaka–Ndola Dual Carriageway, the Luanshya Shaft 28 dewatering project, and the Chisamba Solar Power Plant.

Recent debt restructuring agreements have also facilitated smoother cooperation between Zambia and China.

During the FOCAC Beijing Summit, a Memorandum of Understanding for revitalizing TAZARA was signed, followed by a concession agreement in October.

Premier Li’s current visit aims to consolidate previous achievements while setting the stage for new initiatives in bilateral cooperation.

He is scheduled to hold talks with President Hichilema at State House, where discussions will focus on enhancing trade, boosting economic cooperation, and promoting South–South solidarity.

Officials expect over a dozen agreements to be signed, covering areas such as trade, green energy, innovation, and education.

Premier Li is also expected to witness the groundbreaking of the TAZARA revitalization project.

China’s recently announced 15th Five-Year Plan, which emphasizes innovation, green development, and social inclusion, closely aligns with Zambia’s national development priorities.

The visit underscores the shared commitment of both nations to sustainable growth, technological advancement, and strengthened diplomatic ties.

It signals a renewed chapter in China-Zambia relations, built on history, mutual respect, and future-oriented collaboration.

The Maravi Post