Zambia and France have signed a declaration of intent to strengthen bilateral cooperation in key sectors.

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Sylvia Masebo, has expressed the country’s gratitude to the French Government and President, Emmanuel Macron, for their invaluable support in facilitating Zambia’s successful debt restructuring agreement.

ZANIS reports that Ms Masebo added that Zambia is open to foreign investment and recognises the significant contributions that French businesses can make to the country’s economy.

Ms Masebo says the Four Million Euro grant, generously provided by the French Government, is intended to enhance water infrastructure, improve sanitation, and contribute to better public health outcomes in Zambia.

Meanwhile, Minister Delegate for Francophone and international partnerships attached to the Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs of the Republic of France, Thani Soilihi said Zambia and France have identified five priority areas for cooperation among them agriculture, health, energy, sport and culture.

Mr Soilihi said the government of France wants to work with countries that request it, on concrete cooperation projects aimed in particular at supporting entrepreneurship and youth.