Zambia, Switzerland trade investments reach $20 billion- President Hichilema
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BusinessPresident Hakainde Hichilema says trade and investment between Zambia and Switzerland has, over the years evolved, reaching over 20 Billion United States Dollars. President Hichilema has since called for deepened relations into a comprehensive economic partnership between the two…
President Hakainde Hichilema says trade and investment between Zambia and Switzerland has, over the years evolved, reaching over 20 Billion United States Dollars.
President Hichilema has since called for deepened relations into a comprehensive economic partnership between the two countries, to not only ease investor cooperation but also support the Grow Zambia Agenda.
The Head of State notes that the partnership model would ensure mutual benefit and protection, moving away from the traditional pattern of European firms investing in Africa without local participation.
President Hichilema said this, when Swiss State Secretary, Helene Artieda, called on him at State House, in Lusaka today.
President Hichilema highlighted opportunities not only in mining but also in commodities, agriculture, and value addition, stressing that Zambia seeks to leverage Swiss capital and technology alongside its own natural resources.
“We are now saying, seek accelerated economic growth through investment and trade and other things will fall in place”, he shared.
President Hichilema urged Swiss businesses to take advantage of Zambia’s youthful population, which needed education, skills, jobs, and opportunities.
The Head of State stressed that Zambia and Switzerland should work together as equal partners in the global arena, describing such cooperation as the best insurance policy against instability and a pathway to shared prosperity.
President Hichilema also expressed gratitude to Switzerland for its longstanding relations with Zambia, dating back to the 1060s, acknowledging its contribution to the Country’s debt management.
And Ms Artieda expressed Switzerland’s interest in investing in the country , noting that Zambia is well positioned.
She noted that Swiss investment consists of domestic value addition in sectors including extractive minerals, technology and innovation that will create jobs in Zambia.
The Swiss State Secretary further pledged her country’s support towards the Grow Zambia Agenda, noting that the private sector has a key role to play in its achievement.
“We believe that we are, hopefully, a country of choice for your excellency to continue to work with. We are fully supportive of the 10,10,5,3,3,1, 1,1. We believe that the private sector can be part of the solution”, Ms Artieda stated.
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