Upgraded cooperation with China bearing fruit, says Zambian president

LUSAKA, Oct. 15 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema said on Wednesday that the upgrade of bilateral cooperation with China to a comprehensive strategic and cooperative partnership in 2023 is already producing positive results.

Speaking during a meeting with a delegation from Chinese and Zambian companies, Hichilema expressed gratitude to the Chinese government for elevating the partnership.

Zambia is beginning to see the benefits of the upgraded cooperation, he said, emphasizing that the growing presence and interest of Chinese companies in Zambia is a sign of fruitful outcomes.

"The increased investment from Chinese companies supports our government's vision of driving economic growth through enhanced investment," Hichilema said.

Reiterating that Zambia is open for business, the president encouraged Chinese companies to explore the wide range of investment opportunities the country offers. Highlighting Zambia's abundance of natural resources, he said the country is actively seeking capital and technology to harness these resources for economic development.

Hichilema also praised Chinese firms for promoting value addition through their investments and thanked China for opening its market not only to Zambia but to Africa as a whole.