Haimbe Arrives in New York to Represent President Hichilema at UN

Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe has arrived in New York to represent President Hakainde Hichilema at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, leading a delegation that includes Health Minister Professor Roma Chilengi and senior government officials.

Namatama Njekwa, first secretary for press and public relations at Zambia's Permanent Mission to the United Nations, said the session running from 22 to 28 September offers an opportunity to advance national priorities and strengthen partnerships, and to reaffirm Zambia's commitment to peace, democracy and stability following the recent general elections.

The Grow Zambia Agenda sits at the centre of the visit.

"Central to Zambia's engagement is the advancement of the Grow Zambia Agenda, with outcomes that include mobilising technical assistance, development finance and strategic investment," Ms Njekwa said.

Zambia will also press for United Nations programmes to be aligned with national priorities, and seek support for a National Architecture for Peace.

A further priority is Zambia's candidature for election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2027 to 2029 term. Ms Njekwa said Mr Haimbe would use the visit to reaffirm Zambia's commitment to constitutionalism, the rule of law, fundamental freedoms and the protection of human rights.

The Minister delivers Zambia's National Statement on behalf of President Hichilema during the High-Level General Debate on 28 September.

Beyond the debate, the delegation will take part in the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group, where Zambia is deputy chair, and in meetings of the Group of 77 and China. Bilateral meetings with several countries and partners are also planned, covering the Pact for the Future, the Global Digital Compact and the Seville Commitment.