President Hichilema Boosts Investment and Strengthens Ties with Japan

Press Release:

THURSDAY 6th February 2025 Tokyo - President Hakainde Hichilema has concluded a successful working visit to Japan - focused on attracting investment to grow the economy and improve the lives of the Zambian people. Today was marked by a productive meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and a business forum showcasing Zambia's investment potential.

During his meeting with Prime Minister Ishiba, President Hichilema reaffirmed the strong diplomatic relations between Zambia and Japan. Both leaders expressed their commitment to enhancing trade and investment cooperation, building upon existing agreements such as the policy dialogue mechanism and the investment promotion and protection agreement.

President Hichilema said, “We firmly believe that Zambia is the ideal destination for Japanese investment, which will help grow the economy and improve the lives of Zambians, I look forward to fostering a stronger partnership with Japan.”

President Hichilema expressed gratitude for Japan's ongoing support in key sectors such as mining, agriculture, and infrastructure development. He emphasized the importance of continued bilateral dialogue to further strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

As Zambia’s Chief Marketing Officer, the President also attended the Zambia Business Forum in Tokyo, where he addressed over 100 Japanese companies and highlighted Zambia's abundant natural resources, peaceful environment, and stable investment climate. He encouraged Japanese businesses to explore opportunities in sectors such as copper, critical minerals, and energy, which are crucial to Zambia's ambitious economic goals, including reaching 3 million tonnes of annual copper production.

President Hichilema assured potential investors of the Zambian government's commitment to supporting Japanese investment and removing obstacles that get in its way.

The President's visit to Japan has underscored the potential for a strengthened partnership between the two countries, with a focus on mutually beneficial economic cooperation and development.

ISSUED; Clayson Hamasaka, Chief Communication Specialist