Tirana, Albania – Zambia and Albania have outlined plans to strengthen their political and economic relationship through new legal frameworks. The announcement came during the presentation of credentials by Zambian Ambassador Patricia Chisanga Kondolo to Albanian President Bajram Begaj.
President Begaj expressed optimism about the potential for enhanced cooperation under Ambassador Kondolo’s tenure. He proposed formalizing political dialogue through legal agreements to bolster ties in both political and economic spheres. The Albanian leader also suggested initiating visa waivers for diplomatic and service personnel as a first step towards visa-free travel for ordinary citizens.
Ambassador Kondolo echoed the President’s optimism, conveying warm greetings from Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema. She identified agriculture, tourism, and energy as key areas for collaboration, particularly in light of Zambia’s current drought crisis.
President Begaj concurred, highlighting the potential for cooperation in agriculture and energy while emphasizing the need for a collective global response to climate change.
Beyond the high-level meeting, Ambassador Kondolo engaged with officials from Albania’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs to explore avenues for bilateral and multilateral cooperation. The two sides agreed to revive draft agreements on visa waivers, taxation, investment protection, and economic cooperation.
The Zambian envoy also discussed Zambia’s energy challenges with Albanian officials, exploring potential collaboration in solar, biofuel, and wind energy projects.
In a separate meeting, Ambassador Kondolo met with Marin Gjonaj, Chairman of the Gjonaj Group, which has existing business ties with Zambia’s Zamtel. The group expressed interest in expanding its investment in Zambia, particularly in the energy sector.
The Zambian ambassador pledged support to facilitate increased trade and investment between the two countries.
