Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 28th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation is pleased to announce that His Excellency Mr Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, will embark on a State Visit to Japan from 3rd to 7th February 2025.
This official visit comes at the invitation of His Excellency Mr. Shigeru Ishiba, Prime Minister of Japan.
This historic visit underscores the enduring partnership between Zambia and Japan, founded on shared values, mutual respect, and a commitment to advancing common goals.
It reflects the strengthening of ties that have seen both nations collaborate in areas of strategic importance over the years.
FOUR (4) KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF THE VISIT:
(1). President Hichilema will engage in high-level talks with Prime Minister Ishiba to deliberate on key issues of mutual interest. These include initiatives to promote trade, enhance investment and foster technological exchange. The discussions are expected to culminate in the signing of several Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at reinforcing cooperation in critical sectors.
(2). The President will meet with senior officials from leading institutions, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Fujita Corporation, the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security and Toyota Corporation.
The discussions will focus on investment opportunities in areas such as road infrastructure development, renewable energy and other transformative projects vital to Zambia’s economic growth.
(3). As part of the visit, President Hichilema will tour advanced manufacturing facilities in Nagoya and Kyoto. These tours will showcase Japan’s expertise in cutting-edge technologies, including a visit to a waste-to-energy facility that could serve as a model for Zambia’s sustainable energy and waste management initiatives.
(4). The President is scheduled to deliver a keynote address at the Zambia-Japan Business Forum on 6th February in Tokyo. The forum will bring together business leaders and investors from both nations to explore opportunities in trade, renewable energy, healthcare, education and beyond.
This State Visit is a pivotal step in expanding Zambia’s international partnerships and positioning the country as a preferred destination for investment.
By leveraging Japan’s global leadership in innovation and technology, Zambia through President Hakainde Hichilema and the New Dawn Government aims to unlock new opportunities that will drive sustainable development, foster job creation and enhance the quality of life for its citizens.
President Hichilema’s itinerary reflects a forward-looking approach, focusing on strategic engagements and practical solutions to address Zambia’s developmental priorities.
The agreements and partnerships emerging from this visit are expected to strengthen Zambia’s economic and diplomatic standing on the global stage.
President Hichilema is set to return to Zambia on 8th February 2025, with the outcomes of this visit anticipated to yield long-lasting benefits for the nation.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Zambia
The Agency