China and Zambia Strengthen Ties, Aim to Build Closer Bilateral Community

Beijing, The Gulf Observer: In a significant development towards enhancing bilateral relations, Zhao Leji, Chairman of China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, affirmed China’s commitment to deepening its traditional friendship and practical cooperation with Zambia. Zhao’s remarks were made on Wednesday during his meeting with Nelly Mutti, Speaker of Zambia’s National Assembly, in Beijing.

Highlighting the enduring bond between the two nations, Zhao emphasized China’s readiness to collaborate with Zambia on implementing the strategic agreements reached by their respective heads of state. The two countries mark the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year, providing an opportune moment to align China’s high-quality Belt and Road Initiative with Zambia’s Eighth National Development Plan.

Zhao underscored the value of legislative cooperation as an integral part of the China-Zambia relationship. He reaffirmed the NPC’s willingness to strengthen inter-parliamentary exchanges across various levels and sectors, which he noted would bolster the political foundation of their bilateral partnership. Expressing gratitude for Zambia’s support on matters central to China’s core interests, Zhao reiterated China’s commitment to reciprocating this trust and mutual support.

Recognizing the role of the legislative bodies in shaping cooperation, Zhao called for enhanced legislative efforts to provide legal frameworks supporting the implementation of joint projects. He further encouraged both countries to collaborate actively in international forums, advocating for reforms in multilateral institutions, addressing climate change, and promoting a robust multilateral approach to global challenges.

Zhao also emphasized the importance of executing the outcomes of the recent Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, expressing hope for tangible progress and early achievements in the projects outlined.

In response, Speaker Mutti praised China as a steadfast partner to Zambia, expressing a desire to deepen collaboration across various sectors. She also voiced her commitment to strengthening the partnership between Zambia’s National Assembly and China’s NPC, especially in multilateral settings, to advance shared objectives and further Zambia-China relations.

The renewed commitment from both nations underscores a shared vision for a closer China-Zambia community, with joint efforts poised to strengthen regional development and address global challenges.