Zambia recently commemorated the 60th anniversary of its diplomatic relationship with the People’s Republic of China in a ceremony held at the TAZARA Memorial Park in Chongwe District. The event was themed “Pass on the Spirit to the Next Generation and Jointly Build a Shared Future,” reflecting the enduring commitment of both nations to strengthen their partnership.
During the ceremony, President Hakainde Hichilema reaffirmed Zambia’s dedication to maintaining its cordial relationship with China. He underscored that the foundation of this significant partnership was established by Zambia’s first President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, whose collaboration with China and Tanzania led to the creation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA). This historic project not only facilitated trade and transportation but also symbolized the deep-rooted ties between the nations.
“This is a clear demonstration that what we do today or what we did yesterday will definitely matter tomorrow,” President Hichilema stated, emphasizing the importance of historical cooperation in shaping the future. He expressed profound gratitude to China for its unwavering support since Zambia gained independence in 1964, highlighting the critical role that this relationship has played in the nation’s development.
“Once more, thank you to the People’s Republic of China for standing with Zambia since 1964, and we remain committed to this friendship. May God bless Zambia. May God bless the People’s Republic of China,” the President concluded, reiterating Zambia’s commitment to nurturing this partnership for future generations.
The anniversary celebration not only marked a historic milestone but also served as a reminder of the shared future that Zambia and China aim to build together. The event showcased the mutual respect and cooperation that have characterized the relationship over the past six decades, paving the way for further collaboration in various sectors, including infrastructure development, trade, and investment.
As Zambia looks forward to the next chapter in its relationship with China, the commitment to fostering a prosperous future through continued partnership remains at the forefront of both nations’ agendas.
