Copenhagen, Denmark – May 4, 2024 – Zambia’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, has urged for a radical transformation of the global financial system to create a more inclusive and effective model for international economic governance.
Speaking at the 2024 Nordic-African Ministers of Foreign Affairs Meeting, Haimbe criticized the current architecture, highlighting its deep-rooted inequalities and inefficiencies that disadvantage developing countries.
Despite geographical separation, Haimbe emphasized the shared challenges faced by Africa and the Nordic region due to globalization. He called for a new framework encompassing institutions, rules, and procedures to facilitate international cooperation in addressing these issues.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Haimbe reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to co-facilitating the Global Digital Compact (GDC) alongside Sweden. He acknowledged the potential of technological advancements like artificial intelligence in tackling climate change, health concerns, and food security. However, he expressed concern about the increased risk of misinformation and its threat to individuals, communities, and democratic processes.
Haimbe stressed the need to encourage innovation while establishing safeguards. He explained that the GDC aims to ensure responsible use of digital technologies for the collective benefit, bridging the digital divide and fostering a safe and inclusive online environment. It outlines cooperation principles focused on development, human rights, and multi-stakeholder involvement.
Earlier, Haimbe met bilaterally with his Norwegian counterpart, Espen Barth Eide. Discussions centered on key areas like agriculture, food security, energy transition, and climate adaptation. Zambia remains a priority country for Norway, receiving investments in green energy, food security, and microfinance through the Norwegian Investment Fund (Norfund).
