The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has announced that President Hakainde Hichilema is visiting the People’s Republic of China from today, August 30th to September 7th, 2024, to attend the Ninth Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) Summit.
The Summit, held every three years alternately in Africa and China, will take place in Beijing from September 4th to 6th, 2024. This year’s theme is “Joining Forces to Promote Modernisation and Build a High-level China-Africa Community of a Shared Future.” President Hichilema will join other leaders to discuss mutual growth and development between Africa and China.
On September 4th, President Hichilema will meet with Chinese President Xi Jinping to strengthen the 60-year diplomatic relationship between Zambia and China. The meeting will also feature the signing of the Investment Framework for the revitalisation of TAZARA, with President Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania. Later that day, President Hichilema will attend the Zambia Power Development Forum at Power China Headquarters.
In addition to the Summit, President Hichilema will hold strategic meetings with Chinese government officials and investors, including a discussion with representatives from China Railway Construction Corporation and China Non-Ferrous Metals Corporation on September 3rd, 2024.
This visit aims to build on the Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership and unlock new investment opportunities in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, infrastructure, and mining. President Hichilema’s engagements are part of ongoing efforts to accelerate Zambia’s socio-economic development and create equitable opportunities for its citizens.
President Hichilema is expected to return to Zambia following his visit.
