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Harare, Lusaka seek reset as Hichilema visits Zimbabwe
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Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema will arrive in Zimbabwe this Friday, marking his first state visit to Harare since taking office and signalling a potential reset in relations between the two southern African neighbours.
The visit comes after a period of diplomatic strain following Zimbabwe's 2023 general elections, when an observer mission led by Zambia's Nevers Mumba issued a critical report questioning aspects of the poll's credibility.
According to a statement by Zambia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hichilema will visit Zimbabwe on 14 November 2025 at the invitation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
During the trip, the two leaders will co-chair the inaugural session of the Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) — an upgraded framework replacing the previous Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC). The BNC is intended to strengthen strategic engagement and accelerate cooperation across multiple sectors.
"The establishment of the BNC underscores the shared vision of the two Heads of State to strengthen bilateral cooperation, accelerate joint infrastructure projects, and deepen economic integration between the two nations," the Zambian Foreign Ministry said.
The BNC meetings began earlier in the week with senior officials convening on November 12 and ministers on November 13 to prepare agreements expected to be endorsed by the two presidents.
Discussions are expected to focus on trade, energy, and transport, including the development and management of shared assets such as the Kariba Dam, Victoria Falls, and regional transport corridors.
The statement also highlighted the "deep and enduring bonds of friendship, shared history, and mutual respect" linking the two countries, describing them as "sister nations bound by geography, culture, and shared resources."
Zambia, the ministry said, remains committed to regional cooperation, economic diplomacy, and infrastructure development as drivers of inclusive growth within the Southern African region.
President Hichilema is expected to return to Lusaka immediately after concluding his engagements in Harare.
The visit comes after a period of diplomatic strain following Zimbabwe's 2023 general elections, when an observer mission led by Zambia's Nevers Mumba issued a critical report questioning aspects of the poll's credibility.
According to a statement by Zambia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hichilema will visit Zimbabwe on 14 November 2025 at the invitation of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
During the trip, the two leaders will co-chair the inaugural session of the Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) — an upgraded framework replacing the previous Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC). The BNC is intended to strengthen strategic engagement and accelerate cooperation across multiple sectors.
"The establishment of the BNC underscores the shared vision of the two Heads of State to strengthen bilateral cooperation, accelerate joint infrastructure projects, and deepen economic integration between the two nations," the Zambian Foreign Ministry said.
Discussions are expected to focus on trade, energy, and transport, including the development and management of shared assets such as the Kariba Dam, Victoria Falls, and regional transport corridors.
The statement also highlighted the "deep and enduring bonds of friendship, shared history, and mutual respect" linking the two countries, describing them as "sister nations bound by geography, culture, and shared resources."
Zambia, the ministry said, remains committed to regional cooperation, economic diplomacy, and infrastructure development as drivers of inclusive growth within the Southern African region.
President Hichilema is expected to return to Lusaka immediately after concluding his engagements in Harare.
Source - businessdaily.co.zw
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