Prague, Czech Republic – Zambia and the Czech Republic have embarked on a new chapter in their cooperation, with a focus on promoting value addition within Zambia’s economy.
President Petr Pavel of the Czech Republic highlighted this shift in emphasis during a meeting with Zambia’s newly appointed Ambassador, Her Excellency Winnie Natala Chibesakunda.
“Our cooperation with Zambia will be based on the ‘made in Zambia’ concept,” President Pavel declared, emphasizing the Czech Republic’s commitment to supporting Zambia’s production of finished goods rather than simply exporting raw materials.
President Pavel underscored his country’s desire for a mutually beneficial partnership. “We don’t intend to take any minerals from Zambia,” he stated, “but will instead engage in value addition initiatives.” He encouraged Czech companies investing in Zambia to prioritize processing raw materials within the country.
Recognizing the importance of economic ties, President Pavel called for the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) to solidify cooperation in key areas and ensure concrete implementation of this new strategic direction.
The meeting also highlighted the existing spirit of collaboration between the two nations. President Pavel expressed his appreciation for Zambia’s support on the international stage, and his eagerness to welcome high-level delegations from Zambia in the future.
Ambassador Chibesakunda reciprocated the warm sentiments, conveying greetings from President Hakainde Hichilema. She expressed gratitude for the Czech Republic’s swift response to Zambia’s recent drought, including the dispatch of a high-level delegation earlier this year.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Chibesakunda identified healthcare as an area ripe for further collaboration. She also commended the Czech Republic’s scholarship program, which supports Zambian students in fields critical to the nation’s economic development. Additionally, the Ambassador emphasized the potential for expanded cooperation in agriculture and energy sectors. She assured President Pavel that the Zambian Embassy would actively pursue the numerous infrastructure projects that have attracted Czech interest.
