President HH Departs for Japan on Official Visit

President Hakainde Hichilema departed for Japan yesterday evening at the invitation of Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba. 

The five-day visit aims to deepen the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations and unlock new opportunities for bilateral trade and development. 

During the visit, President Hichlema is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister Ishiba for a summit meeting, followed by a working dinner. He will also make a State Call on His Majesty the Emperor of Japan.

The President's itinerary will take him to Aichi, Kyoto and Tokyo, where he will meet with high-ranking officials from prominent Japanese organisations, including the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Fujita Corporation, and Toyota Corporation.

The discussion will focus on promoting trade and investment in road infrastructure, renewable energy, and other development projects. The signing of Memoranda of Understanding in strategic sectors is expected to further enhance collaboration between the two nations.

Zambia and Japan have maintained strong diplomatic ties since just after Zambia gained independence in 1964. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has been crucial in supporting Zambia's development, particularly in infrastructure, agriculture, and training.

Japan has also played a notable role in helping Zambia's health sector, especially in the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria, and other public health challenges. The president's visit will highlight Japan's ongoing support and explore more ways to collaborate on these issues.

State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, in a statement released to the media, underscored the importance of the visit as a reaffirmation of the shared commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation and the enduring strength of Zambia's partnership with Japan.

The President is scheduled to return to Zambia on February 8, 2025.