On 26th February, the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the European Union convened the 2026 Zambia–EU Partnership Dialogue at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, reaffirming a longstanding friendship rooted in shared values. The annual high-level engagement brought together senior officials from both sides to strengthen political and economic cooperation while promoting mutual development. Zambia was represented by a robust delegation led by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., M.P., Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation and Acting Minister of Finance and National Planning. The delegation included key cabinet members such as Hon. Brenda Tambatamba, M.P., Acting Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security; Hon. Douglas Syakalima, M.P., Acting Minister of Justice; Hon. Museba Frank Tayali, M.P., Minister of Transport and Logistics; Hon. Paul Kabuswe, M.P., Minister of Mines and Mineral Development; Hon. Felix Mutati, M.P., Minister of Technology and Science; Hon. Mike Mposha, M.P., Minister of Green Economy and Environment; Hon. Chipoka Mulenga, M.P., Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry; and Hon. Collins Nzovu, M.P., Minister of Water and Development Sanitation. The EU delegation was led by Her Excellency Karolina Stasiak, Ambassador of the European Union in Zambia, alongside Ambassadors and Heads of Mission from Finland, France, Germany, Sweden, Czech Republic, Ireland, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands, and Denmark.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Haimbe expressed gratitude for the EU’s consistent support and partnership, emphasizing that the Dialogue reflects Zambia’s commitment to democracy, human rights, good governance, and inclusive development. He highlighted the EU’s role in providing support during economic challenges and global uncertainty, particularly in promoting macroeconomic stability, debt sustainability, and economic recovery. The Minister underscored that Zambia views the partnership as more than financial assistance, framing it as a collaborative, long-term effort grounded in shared responsibility and sustainable development impact. Hon. Haimbe also reiterated Zambia’s commitment to democratic governance, particularly with preparations for the 2026 General Elections underway, welcoming the EU’s readiness to deploy an Election Observation Mission. He emphasized that such cooperation enhances transparency, accountability, and public confidence while strengthening national institutions.
Permanent Secretary for International Relations and Cooperation, Ms. Etambuyu Anamela Gundersen, highlighted that the Dialogue provides an opportunity to align Zambia–EU cooperation with the country’s development priorities. She noted that this year’s discussions would focus on critical issues affecting Zambia, from infrastructure and energy to trade, technology, and sustainable development. The Dialogue allows for meaningful engagement between the Zambian Government and the EU, facilitating constructive conversations that shape policies and programmes with long-term impact. By bringing together stakeholders across multiple sectors, the initiative ensures that partnerships are inclusive, comprehensive, and aligned with Zambia’s national development agenda. This engagement also strengthens institutional capacity and encourages knowledge sharing between Zambia and European partners.
Ambassador Karolina Stasiak underscored the EU’s commitment to Zambia through the Global Gateway 360 approach, which mobilizes investment to support sustainable and inclusive growth. She highlighted the EU’s role in advancing the development of the Lobito Corridor, describing it as a transformative regional project with significant economic potential. Ambassador Stasiak reaffirmed the EU’s position as a trusted, reliable, and long-term partner, even amid global geopolitical shifts, pressures on multilateralism, climate change, and economic volatility. She emphasized that the EU remains committed to working collaboratively with Zambia to promote regional integration, infrastructure development, and inclusive economic growth. The Ambassador’s remarks reinforced the importance of consistent, predictable partnerships in achieving shared objectives for sustainable development.
The 2026 Zambia–EU Partnership Dialogue strengthened the foundation for continued cooperation across political, economic, and social sectors. The engagement highlighted the mutual commitment to democracy, good governance, and inclusive development while creating avenues for increased investment, trade, and sustainable growth. By focusing on strategic projects and development priorities, both parties reaffirmed their role in fostering stability, innovation, and regional integration. The dialogue showcased Zambia’s openness to collaboration with international partners and the EU’s dedication to long-term, predictable, and impactful support. This high-level engagement positions Zambia and the EU to build on their shared successes, ensuring continued progress toward national and regional development goals.