LUSAKA, Zambia — President Hakainde Hichilema has called for closer trade cooperation and better connectivity between Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) following a courtesy visit from a senior delegation representing President Félix Tshisekedi.
The delegation, led by Ms. Isabelle Kibassa Maliba, First Secretary-at-Large to the Congolese President, met with Zambian officials this week to discuss bilateral ties rooted in centuries of shared culture, language, and borderland history. The two neighbouring countries share a 1,900-kilometre boundary, home to communities with intertwined identities.
President Hichilema said the historic bonds between Zambia and the DRC make it urgent to formalize trade and foster peaceful cohabitation. He called for harmonized border regulations to make the flow of goods and services more efficient, especially as both nations are members of the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
He also stressed the importance of launching direct flights between major cities in both countries. He said improved air connectivity would not only boost trade but also encourage tourism and interpersonal exchange.
