President Hichilema to Strengthen Zambia-Japan Ties During State Visit

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has reported that President Hichilema will undertake a State Visit to Japan from 3 to 7 February 2025. The visit, at the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, marks a significant milestone in deepening the long-standing bilateral relations between Zambia and Japan, founded on mutual interests and shared values.

Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe announced in a press release that President Hichilema and Prime Minister Ishiba will engage in high-level discussions aimed at enhancing trade and investment cooperation. In addition to bilateral talks, Hichilema will meet with key organisations, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Fujita Corporation, the Japan Organisation for Metals and Energy Security, and Toyota Corporation. These engagements will focus on critical areas such as road infrastructure, renewable energy and broader development initiatives.  

As part of his visit, Hichilema will travel to Nagoya and Kyoto, where he will tour leading manufacturing companies and a waste treatment facility specialising in waste-energy solutions. These visits will provide valuable insights into Japan’s cutting-edge technological advancements and sustainability efforts

A key highlight of the visit will be Hichilema’s address at the Zambia-Japan Business Forum in Tokyo on 6 February 2025. The forum serves as a strategic platform to expand bilateral cooperation, fostering new opportunities in trade, renewable energy, healthcare, and education.

With Japan’s global leadership in technology and innovation, the visit presents an opportunity to create a mutually beneficial partnership that drives economic growth, knowledge exchange, and sustainable development for both nations.