Swiss Business Delegation in Zambia, Mopani Copper Mine On The Agenda

Switzerland has reiterated its commitment to bilateral relations and economic cooperation between Zambia and their country.

Ignazio Cassis, Head of the Swiss Foreign Affairs Department, noted that his country and Zambia have enjoyed good relations since independence and that their work had been for the benefit of both nations’ people.

Switzerland established a Consulate in Zambia in 1969, following recognition of our Independence in 1966.

Switzerland and Zambia have signed various agreements that include the reciprocal protection of investment and the convention for the avoidance of double taxation with respect to taxes and income and prevention of tax evasion.

Mr Cassis continued that Switzerland had in fact become Zambia’s largest trading partner with about 44.3% shares in Zambia’s export. In addition, the aim of the trip was to show they are serious about investing in areas such as pharmaceuticals, mining, cement production, agriculture and commodity training.

The Swiss are also majority shareholder in Mopani Copper Mines, an undoubtedly came to try and negotiate the PF’s new tax policies which have led two of Zambia’s biggest mining investors to cut jobs and production.