Zambia took a significant step in deepening bilateral relations with Norway as President Hakainde Hichilema hosted His Excellency Åsmund Grøver Aukrust, Minister for International Development of the Kingdom of Norway, and his delegation at State House this morning. The visit marks a continuation of long-standing cooperation and a shared vision for inclusive development, sustainable resource management, and global equity.
President Hichilema expressed Zambia’s deep respect for Norway’s post-World War II achievements in resource governance and sustainable development. He noted that Zambia is eager to learn from Norway’s success in areas such as responsible mining practices, environmental conservation, and transparency in the extractive sector—critical lessons for Zambia’s path to economic transformation.
As Zambia intensifies its efforts to become a regional leader in sustainable industrialization, the President underscored the importance of enhanced cooperation with the Norwegian private sector. Strategic sectors such as energy, mining, tourism, and agriculture were highlighted as key pillars in Zambia’s development strategy, offering vast opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships.
President Hichilema also commended the impact of the 2023 visit by a high-level delegation from the Norwegian-African Business Council. He noted that engagements arising from that mission are beginning to yield promising results, reflecting the strength and maturity of the bilateral relationship between Zambia and Norway.
In addition to economic cooperation, Zambia acknowledged Norway’s principled stance on global governance. President Hichilema welcomed Norway’s support for reforming the United Nations Security Council to ensure Africa’s full and fair representation. He emphasized that such reform is critical in achieving a balanced and inclusive international order where all continents have a voice in shaping global outcomes.
As both nations look to the future, today’s meeting signals a shared commitment to values of transparency, sustainability, and equity. With growing diplomatic and economic engagement, Zambia and Norway are poised to build a stronger partnership that serves their people and contributes to a more just global community.