Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Principal Public Relations Officer, Eva Chanda says the active engagement at the 38th ordinary session of the African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia underscored the government’s commitment to economically transform the country.
In a press statement made available to ZANIS, Ms Chanda says the government remains dedicated to positioning Zambia as a key player in regional and continental affairs.
She added that Zambia successfully underwent the Africa Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) assessment, with President Hakainde Hichillema receiving commendation for strengthening democratic institutions, enhancing media freedom, combating corruption, and securing a landmark G20 debt restructuring deal.
“Zambia actively participated in the 38th Ordinary Session of the African Union (AU) Summit, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from 15th to 16th February 2025, securing key outcomes that reinforce the country’s leadership in governance, economic diplomacy, and regional development,” she said.
Ms Chanda also added that a Zambian national Yvonne Chibiya who was re-elected for a second term to the African Union Advisory Board Against Corruption (AUABC) was among the highlights of the AU summit.
She noted that the re-election of Ms Chibiya reinforces Zambia’s commitment to governance and anti-corruption efforts.
Ms Chanda said Zambia was also endorsed as the host of the 3rd Pan-African Implementation and Partnership Conference on Water (PANAFCON), scheduled to take place in Lusaka from 27th to 29th May 2025, underscoring the country’s leadership in water security and governance.
“In an effort to advance Zambia’s economic interests, President Hichilema held discussions with Her Excellency Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General World Trade Organization (WTO), on the margins of the Summit. President Hichilema received recognition from Dr. Okonjo-Iweala for Zambia’s improving trade and investment climate,” she added.
Ms Chanda said President Hichilema also met with Trade and Development Bank (TDB) Group President Admassu Tadesse to explore financial models that support Zambia’s economic growth.
She explained that the Head of State also delivered a strategic address at the launch of the African Credit Ratings Agency (AfCRA), reinforcing Zambia’s commitment to financial sovereignty and economic stability on the continent.
Ms Chanda highlighted the holding of a Joint Press Briefing on the African Development Bank presidency campaign co hosted by His Excellency Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and His Excellency Mr Evariste Ndayishimiye, President of the Republic of Burundi and Chairperson of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) and other engagements.
