Zambia Seeks to Strengthen Tourism and Trade Ties with Germany
Commitment to Economic Diplomacy
July 18th, 2024The Minister of Tourism for Zambia, Hon. Rodney Sikumba, has expressed a strong commitment to expanding development cooperation and trade with the Federal Republic of Germany. During his recent visit to Berlin, Germany, Minister Sikumba met with Mr. Sven Schulze, the Minister of Economy, Tourism, Agriculture, and Forestry of the German state of Saxon-Anhalt, to discuss avenues for enhanced economic diplomacy.
In his remarks, Minister Sikumba reiterated Zambia's dedication to fostering mutually beneficial cooperation and understanding with Germany. He emphasized that the meeting aimed to bolster Zambia’s efforts in forging economic and trade ties, particularly in the tourism sector, with Saxon-Anhalt and Germany at large. This initiative underscores Zambia's strategic focus on economic diplomacy as a means to achieve sustainable development.
Minister Sikumba highlighted that the bilateral relations between Zambia and Germany have remained strong despite changes in political leadership. He noted that Zambia deeply values the longstanding friendship with Germany, which is founded on shared values, mutual respect, and common aspirations at both bilateral and multilateral levels. This enduring partnership is seen as a cornerstone for future collaborations.
Minister Sikumba pointed out that Zambia has been closely observing the economic success in Saxon-Anhalt, especially in areas such as investor services, location marketing, and tourism marketing. He acknowledged the state's highly industrialized and diversified economy, which also emphasizes services like tourism and production through innovation hubs. Minister Sikumba expressed confidence that Zambia could greatly benefit from advancements in these sectors.
Zambia is keen on partnering with Saxon-Anhalt in the tourism industry, leveraging the region's robust tourism network and digital competence. Minister Sikumba emphasized that this partnership could significantly enhance Zambia's tourism sector, bringing in new opportunities for growth and development. He also highlighted Germany's prioritization of Africa as a trade partner and underscored Zambia’s strategic positioning to strengthen economic and trade relations with Germany on the African continent.
Hon. Sikumba commended the German Government for its regional development cooperation initiatives, particularly in the areas of education focusing on TEVET crafts and trade institutions. He also appreciated Germany’s efforts in the conservation of historical artifacts and natural heritage sites, including museums, and its commitment to the stewardship of natural resources, wildlife conservation, and biodiversity protection.
The meeting between Minister Sikumba and Minister Schulze took place on the sidelines of the ITB Berlin Trade Show, a significant event that brings together stakeholders from the global tourism industry. This platform provided an excellent opportunity for Zambia to showcase its tourism potential and seek collaborative ventures with German counterparts.
In the accompanying image, Hon. Rodney Sikumba (right) is seen with Mr. Sven Schulze, symbolizing the cordial and productive discussions held during their meeting.
By focusing on these collaborative efforts, Zambia aims to create a robust framework for development and economic cooperation with Germany, particularly through enhanced tourism and trade ties.