ON the sidelines of the 5th G20 Compact with Africa Conference, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema engaged in bilateral talks at the Federal Chancellery in Berlin yesterday.
President Hichilema commended Chancellor Scholz for the successful organization of the conference and congratulated Germany on its pivotal role in Zambia’s debt restructuring through the G20 Common Framework.
Both leaders acknowledged the historical ties between their nations, citing recent advancements, including the German President’s visit to Zambia.
The leaders celebrated Germany’s support, with projects totaling EUR 77 million in water and sanitation, good governance, and agriculture.
President Hichilema expressed Zambia’s readiness to collaborate with German businesses, particularly in the electric battery value chain industry.
Chancellor Scholz expressed readiness to participate in infrastructure projects, while we encouraged German businesses to invest in value addition in the agriculture sector.
The leaders encouraged joint ventures and emphasized Zambia’s commitment to boosting SME participation through economic zones and industrial parks.
In the water and sanitation sector, President Hichilema appreciated Germany’s support and pledged full commitment to the implementation of the water management project in Zambia’s Southern Province.
The two leaders called for collaborative partnerships in food production to address Zambia’s, the region’s, and global food security concerns.
Acknowledging support for energy projects, including the Chishimba Falls Rehabilitation Project, the leaders encouraged ongoing collaboration.
Furthermore, the ‘Strengthening of Good Financial Governance in Zambia’ program for the period 2023 to 2027 was commended, reaffirming commitment to good governance, the rule of law, democratic principles, and the fight against corruption.
Prior to the meeting with the German Chancellor, President Hichilema took some time to interact with Zambian residents in the country, who traveled long distances and gathered around him like a swam of bees for selfies.
Meanwhile Minister of Finance and National Planning Situmbeko Musokotwane met with Mittelstand BVMW (Association of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises BVMW) for further partnership.
The Mittelstand BVMW is the backbone of the German economy comprising a diverse range of mid-sized businesses.
As the talks continue, the leaders aim to deepen cooperation, build mutual partnerships, and explore avenues for further collaboration between Zambia and Germany.
By Moses Makwaya in Berlin Germany
