Africa

Czeck Republic Commits to Boost Zambia’s Economic Growth through Value Addition

Ambassador Winnie Chibesakunda Strengthens Zambia-Czeck Republic Ties, Advocates for Enhanced Economic Collaboration

August 14th, 2024
Yana Kurteva, News from Berlin
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In a strategic move to strengthen economic ties, the Czech Republic has pledged its support to Zambia in promoting value addition, with a focus on producing finished products rather than exporting raw materials. This commitment was underscored by Czech President Petr Pavel during a formal ceremony at Prague Castle, where Zambia's Ambassador to Germany, Winnie Natala Chibesakunda, presented her Letters of Credence, accrediting her as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Czech Republic.

Ambassador Chibesakunda, who serves as the head of Zambia's Embassy in Germany, is a seasoned diplomat with a deep understanding of international relations. Her appointment to this additional diplomatic post reflects Zambia's strategic interest in enhancing its global presence and forging robust economic partnerships. During her presentation, Ambassador Chibesakunda conveyed warm greetings and best wishes from Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema to President Pavel and the Czech people.

In her remarks, Ambassador Chibesakunda expressed profound gratitude to President Pavel for being the first international leader to respond to President Hichilema's call for assistance during Zambia's recent drought crisis. She highlighted the significance of the high-level Czech delegation that visited Zambia earlier this year, emphasizing that such gestures underscore the depth of the relationship between the two nations.

Beyond expressing appreciation, Ambassador Chibesakunda seized the opportunity to advocate for broader areas of cooperation. She particularly stressed the importance of expanding collaboration in the health sector, which remains a critical area for Zambia's development. Her call for enhanced cooperation reflects her keen awareness of Zambia's pressing needs and her commitment to securing tangible benefits for her country through international partnerships.

A staunch advocate for education, Ambassador Chibesakunda thanked the Czech Republic for offering scholarships to Zambian students in fields crucial to the nation’s economic growth. She underscored the importance of these educational opportunities, which not only empower individual Zambians but also contribute to the overall development of the country.

Moreover, Ambassador Chibesakunda emphasized the need for increased cooperation in the agricultural and energy sectors—key pillars of Zambia's economy. She assured President Pavel that the Zambian Embassy under her leadership would diligently follow up on infrastructure projects that have attracted interest from Czech investors. This proactive approach signals her determination to ensure that Zambia fully capitalizes on the opportunities presented by its partnership with the Czech Republic.

As Zambia's Ambassador to Germany, with additional responsibilities in the Czech Republic, Ambassador Chibesakunda is well-positioned to drive the bilateral agenda forward. Her role as a bridge between Zambia and these European nations is crucial, not only in facilitating economic cooperation but also in enhancing mutual understanding and goodwill.

Ambassador Chibesakunda’s diplomatic efforts are key to the successful implementation of the "Made in Zambia" initiative, which aims to shift Zambia's economic model from exporting raw materials to producing finished goods. Her leadership and vision are essential in navigating the complexities of international diplomacy and securing a prosperous future for Zambia through strategic global alliances.

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News from Berlin