Wang Yi Holds Talks with Zambian Counterpart in Beijing

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held discussions with Mulambo Haimbe, Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, in Beijing on Wednesday.

Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, highlighted the elevation of China-Zambia relations to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, as jointly announced by the two heads of state last year. This milestone marks a new chapter in bilateral relations.

Expressing appreciation for Zambia’s adherence to the one-China principle, Wang emphasized China’s readiness to consolidate mutual trust, deepen practical cooperation, and continue supporting each other on core interests. He called for joint efforts to activate the Tanzania-Zambia Railway, coordinate comprehensive development along the line, and help Zambia leverage its resource advantages into development momentum. This, Wang noted, would enhance Zambia’s independent development capacity and industrialization level.

Wang also briefed Haimbe on the outcomes of the Third Plenary Session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, noting China’s focus on deepening comprehensive reforms to advance Chinese modernization. He stated that this would bring new opportunities to developing countries, including Zambia, and expressed China’s willingness to share governance experience to support Zambia’s modernization process.

Looking ahead to the upcoming Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) summit in Beijing this September, Wang expressed China’s readiness to collaborate with African countries to ensure the event’s success. He emphasized the importance of carrying forward the traditional China-Africa friendship and advancing the building of a China-Africa community with a shared future.

Haimbe congratulated China on the success of the recent plenum and expressed Zambia’s interest in learning from the CPC’s governance experience to enhance its own governance capacity and better serve its people. He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to the one-China principle and its support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Recalling President Hichilema’s successful visit to China last year, Haimbe expressed anticipation for the upcoming FOCAC summit, predicting its success. He emphasized Zambia’s desire to leverage the 60th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties to further develop the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership with China. Haimbe also welcomed increased Chinese investment in Zambia and expressed readiness to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, energy, and mining.

Both sides agreed to enhance communication and coordination on international and regional affairs, underscoring their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership.