Zambia and EU Chart New Path for Sustainable Development at Annual Dialogue

16.04.25…..The Government of the Republic of Zambia and the European Union (EU) today convened the Zambia–EU Partnership Dialogue for 2025 at the Ciela Resort in Chongwe. This high-level engagement marked a significant milestone, reaffirming the strong, evolving partnership as the two sides commemorate 50 years of Diplomatic Relations in 2025.

The Zambian delegation comprised Hon.  Mulambo Haimbe, S.C, M.P, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Jack Mwiimbu, M.P, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Hon. Princess Kasune, M.P, Minister of Justice, Hon. Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, M.P, Minister of Finance and National Planning, Hon. Museba Frank Tayali, M.P, Minister of Transport and Logistics, and Hon. Felix Mutati, M.P, Minister of Technology and Science.

Her Excellency Ms Rita Laranjinha, Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa, European External Action Service, led the delegation of Ambassadors and Heads of Missions from EU Member States, namely, Germany, France, Czech Republic, Ireland, Finland, Sweden, Italy, Belgium, Poland, Denmark, Bulgaria and Spain.

In his opening remarks, Hon. Haimbe expressed sincere appreciation to the European Union and its Member States for the continued support and commitment to mutual progress. Hon. Haimbe emphasized that the Dialogue represents more than an annual engagement as it is a reaffirmation of shared values such as democracy, good governance, human rights, and inclusive development.

The Minister noted that the Dialogue was taking place at a pivotal moment in the longstanding relationship between Zambia and the EU. He highlighted that as the two sides commemorate five decades of partnership this year, there is a renewed determination to deepen and expand collaboration under the framework of the Samoa Agreement.

Hon. Haimbe expressed hope that this year’s Dialogue would yield concrete outcomes to elevate cooperation, especially as traditional development partners reduce their financial assistance.

The Minister acknowledged the EU’s vital support to Zambia’s democratic processes, including the 2021 General Elections, and welcomed continued collaboration through the Multiannual Indicative Programme (2021–2027), which focuses on the Green Economy, Human Development, and Good Governance.

Hon. Haimbe also highlighted key areas of EU support ranging from the Zambia–Tanzania–Kenya (ZTK) Power Interconnector, to rural electrification and the Zambia Energy Efficiency and Sustainable Transformation (ZEEST) Programme as vital to Zambia’s energy security and transition to renewable energy. He commended the Green Nexus Programme as a promising vehicle to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and water scarcity.

Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, Permanent Secretary International Relations and Cooperation emphasized that the 50-year partnership reflects mutual respect and a shared commitment to development through dialogue. She noted that this year’s Dialogue builds on the successes of the January 2024 meeting and comes amid significant global developments, which call for stronger regional and international cooperation.

Ms. Laranjinha, in her remarks, acknowledged the turbulent global context, with challenges such as ongoing wars, climate disruption, and food insecurity, stressing the importance of partnerships grounded in shared values and interests. She praised Zambia’s constructive role in multilateral fora and its commitment to the principles of the UN Charter.

She further emphasized that the EU’s approach to development cooperation had evolved from traditional aid models to more mutually beneficial partnerships that support local economies, value chains, skills development, job creation, and green, inclusive growth. Ms. Laranjinha pointed to initiatives such as the Lobito Corridor and the EU-Zambia Forest Partnership, which aim to unlock the potential of Zambia’s North-Western region and promote environmental sustainability while supporting local livelihoods and climate resilience.

At the 2025 Partnership Dialogue, both Zambia and the EU reiterated their joint commitment to a resilient, inclusive, and forward-looking partnership, one grounded in shared values and a common vision for sustainable growth and global cooperation.