Zambia and US Agree to Deepen Strategic Partnership at UNGA81

Zambia and the United States have agreed to deepen their strategic partnership, with closer cooperation on health, investment, critical minerals and border transparency.

The two sides met on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Mulambo Haimbe led Zambia's delegation, representing President Hakainde Hichilema. The United States was represented by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Chris Kulukundis.

Mr Kulukundis reaffirmed Zambia's standing as a strategic partner and congratulated the country on President Hichilema's re-election. He said the United States was committed to building a forward-looking partnership with Zambia.

Both governments committed to strengthening existing ties through investment, value addition and economic cooperation aligned with the Grow Zambia Agenda.

Hon. Haimbe said economic diplomacy is central to Zambia's wider development agenda and that the country values its partnerships with the United States.

The two sides said strengthening the relationship remains a priority, and agreed to keep working together across a range of sectors. They also agreed to maintain close communication, with further engagements planned in Washington and Lusaka.

The meeting is one of several bilateral engagements Zambia has held during UNGA81, as the government uses the gathering to build partnerships that support investment and development at home.