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The Zambian government has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening cooperation with China in transport, logistics, infrastructure and wider economic development as the two countries look to strengthen bilateral ties in 2026.
Transport and Logistics Minister, Museba Tayali, said this during the China New Year celebrations held in Lusaka, which were also attended by Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Charles Milupi and Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Tambatamba.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Tayali said the celebrations marked the beginning of 2026 and reflected the long-standing friendship between Zambia and China, anchored on mutual respect and shared development objectives.
He noted that cooperation between the two countries continued to grow across key sectors including transport, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, mining and technology.
He said that under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, Government remained focused on partnerships that promoted economic transformation, created jobs and supported skills and technology transfer.
Highlighting major joint projects, Tayali described the TAZARA Revitalisation Project as a key pillar of Zambia–China cooperation and regional integration.
He said the project would modernise rail infrastructure, introduce new rolling stock, improve passenger and cargo efficiency, strengthen the Dar es Salaam corridor and enhance trade across Southern, Central and East Africa.
He added that the initiative supported government’s vision of positioning Zambia as a land-linked regional logistics hub and praised Chinese partners and financiers for their continued commitment.
The Minister also pointed to progress on the Lusaka–Ndola Dual Carriageway, being implemented through a Public-Private Partnership with strong Chinese participation.
He said the project would improve road safety, reduce travel time, facilitate the movement of mining and agricultural goods, create employment opportunities and strengthen connectivity between Lusaka, the Copperbelt and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Beyond these flagship projects, Tayali said cooperation was expanding in aviation infrastructure, renewable and green energy, information and communication technology and mining and industrial development.
He said such collaboration was essential to Zambia’s industrialisation agenda and the development of a modern transport and logistics ecosystem.
Tayali reaffirmed government’s commitment to a stable and transparent investment environment and encouraged investors to pursue partnerships that deliver tangible benefits to Zambians and align with national priorities.
Meanwhile, Chinese Ambassador to Zambia, Han Jing, called on Chinese companies operating in the country to uphold responsible investment practices, comply with local laws, protect labour rights and adhere to environmental standards.
He said Chinese enterprises remained vital partners in advancing the China–Zambia Comprehensive Strategic and Cooperative Partnership and expressed confidence that sustained collaboration would deliver greater development gains for both countries in the years ahead.
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