Investment conference for Tazara
President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia is set to embark on an official visit to the People’s Republic of China from August 30th to September 7th, 2024. This visit will coincide with his participation in the Ninth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit in Beijing. The summit, themed “Joining Forces to Promote Modernisation and Build a High-level China-Africa Community of a Shared Future,” will be held from September 4th to 6th, 2024. During this prestigious gathering, President Hichilema will engage with other African leaders and key Chinese officials, aiming to advance mutual growth and development across various sectors.
On September 4th, President Hichilema is scheduled to meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping. This meeting is particularly significant as it marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Zambia and China. During this occasion, President Hichilema, alongside President Xi and President Samia Suhulu Hassan of Tanzania, will witness the signing of the Investment Framework on the revitalisation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). This framework represents a commitment to enhancing infrastructure and transportation links between the two nations, fostering increased trade and economic collaboration.
Furthermore, President Hichilema will attend the Zambia Power Development Forum at the Power China Headquarters. This forum will serve as a platform for discussing potential collaborations and investments in Zambia’s energy sector, a critical area for the country’s economic development. By exploring innovative solutions and partnerships, Zambia aims to expand its energy capacity and improve access to electricity for its citizens.
In addition to these engagements, President Hichilema will hold strategic meetings with various government officials and investors. These meetings will include bilateral talks with major Chinese corporations such as China Railway Construction Corporation and China-Non-Ferrous Metals Corporation. The discussions are expected to focus on strengthening Zambia-China relations, exploring new investment opportunities, and supporting key sectors including energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and mining. These efforts align with Zambia’s broader socio-economic development goals, which aim to enhance the quality of life for its citizens and drive sustainable growth.
The visit to China reflects Zambia's commitment to expanding its international partnerships and fostering a conducive environment for foreign investment. By actively engaging with Chinese leaders and business executives, President Hichilema seeks to attract investments that will contribute to Zambia’s industrialization and modernization efforts. This strategic approach underscores the importance of international cooperation in achieving national development objectives.
Overall, this visit is not only a diplomatic milestone but also an opportunity to solidify Zambia's role as a key partner in China-Africa relations. As the world continues to navigate complex economic challenges, such collaborations are essential for promoting resilience, innovation, and shared prosperity across continents.
