PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema says Zambia is now shifting its focus towards economic growth after making progress in stabilising the country’s economy.
Speaking during a meeting with European Union (EU) ambassadors to Zambia and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) at State House yesterday, President Hichilema said his administration initially prioritised debt restructuring after taking office.
“We are focusing on growth now. When we took office, our focus was to restore the country’s economy by restructuring the debt. We just want to continue putting to bed the outstanding elements of the debt restructuring,” he said.
The President, however, expressed concern over the evolving global geopolitical situation, particularly tensions linked to the Middle East, warning that conflicts such as the Iran-US war could negatively affect Zambia’s economic stability.
“The impact of that will be grave on our partnerships. We don’t want to see an expansion of the war because the damage already done is too much. One aspect is the increase in fuel prices, which will disturb our macroeconomic stability agenda,” he said.
President Hichilema added that Zambia remains a peace loving nation that supports a rules based global order.
The Head of State stressed that uncertainty in global affairs affects economic planning and the creation of opportunities for citizens.
“We are anti-conflict as a country. We believe in a rules based global order. But we are seeing its breakdown by the day, which is a great concern because it makes the world unpredictable. We need to restore the rules-based global order,” he shared.
President Hichilema also reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to working closely with the EU in addressing complex and evolving international issues.
Meanwhile, Head of the EU Delegation to Zambia and COMESA Karolina Stasiak said the partnership between Zambia and the EU must remain people centred.
Stasiak emphasised the importance of strong democratic institutions, good governance and the rule of law in driving development.
She also welcomed government’s invitation for an EU Election Observation Mission, revealing that an assessment team is expected in the country to begin preliminary work ahead of the elections.
Stasiak further noted that the EU values Zambia’s constructive role in the region and remains committed to continued cooperation.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, March 24, 2026
