China and Zambia Strengthen Relations Focused on Key Economic Sectors

Chinese President Xi Jinping indicated today, Friday, that his country "supports Zambia in safeguarding its national sovereignty, security, and developmental interests, and encourages increased imports from the Southern African nation." According to the Xinhua News Agency, "Xi met with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in Beijing, and the two countries elevated their relations to a 'comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership' level." Xi pledged to work with Zambia to expand cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, mining, and clean energy. Xinhua reported that "Hichilema thanked China for its support of the African Union's membership in the Group of Twenty during its summit held on September 9 and 10 in New Delhi, and for its positive role in addressing Zambia's debt issues." Zambia is seeking to restructure its external debts with China and find more business opportunities with the world's second-largest economy.