President Hichilema back home after meeting the Pope

President Hakainde Hichilema returned home early yesterday after describing his trip as a series of excellent and progressive talks at the EU – AU Summit in Brussels, Belgium, and our positive engagement with His Holiness Pope Francis at the Vatican.

The President stated that he would continue to work with partners to strengthen our economy and create a climate conducive to business and investment, adding that trade and development remain at the top of our priority list.

The President stated that he believed in the power of democracy, collaboration, and partnership to benefit Zambians and that Zambia is improving.

While in Rome, according to the Vatican, the President was received by Pope Francis at the Vatican on Saturday morning.

According to a statement from the Holy See Press Office, some of the major topics covered during the "cordial discussions" were aspects of the country's economic and social situation, as well as the Church's valued contribution in many areas of society. The topic of universal access to Covid-19 vaccinations and treatment was also discussed, as was the prospect of additional research into the writing of a bilateral agreement between Zambia and the Holy See as "a further show of respectful collaboration."

Mr Hichilema, a devout Adventist, spoke positively of his meeting with Pope Francis in an exclusive interview with Vatican News on the fringes of his visit to the Vatican. He stated that he informed the Holy Father that his administration supports the freedom of worship for all Churches and places a priority on Zambian unity.