In a significant step toward strengthening bilateral relations, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, H.E. Mulambo Haimbe, and India’s Minister of State for External Affairs and Environment, Shri Kirti Vardhan Singh, co-chaired the 6th Session of the Zambia-India Joint Permanent Commission in Lusaka on November 6, 2024.
The two leaders expressed satisfaction at the growing momentum in India-Zambia relations and committed to enhancing cooperation in numerous sectors, from agriculture to technology and healthcare. Both nations celebrated the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations, emphasizing the importance of consistent high-level interactions and exchanges, including in multilateral forums like the UN.
Key Areas of Cooperation
Agriculture and Irrigation: Expanding cooperation in agriculture was a major focus, with India proposing to gift 100 solar-powered irrigation pumps to Zambia. Both sides also discussed increasing training slots for Zambian professionals under India’s ITEC programme, particularly in short-term agricultural training.
Energy and Technology: In response to Zambia’s energy shortage, India’s National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) proposed setting up a 400 MW solar power plant. India urged Zambia to expedite the tri-partite agreement with NTPC and the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Further cooperation was discussed in affordable, eco-friendly housing and low-cost construction techniques.
Mining and Defence: India pledged support for Zambia’s mining sector, focusing on critical minerals. Both countries agreed on the early establishment of a Joint Defence Cooperation Committee to enhance structured defence ties and training programs.
Healthcare: With Zambia seeking access to affordable, quality medicines, India committed to supporting this through the recognition of Indian pharmacopoeia. Discussions also included plans to establish pharmaceutical manufacturing facilities, potentially including vaccine plants, and a center of excellence for healthcare training and service delivery.
Support Amid Zambia’s Drought and Trade Boosts
India pledged humanitarian aid in light of Zambia’s ongoing drought, including a delivery of 2,500 MT of maize. Other support under consideration includes medical equipment, fire tenders, and hundreds of sewing and embroidery machines.
To boost trade, India and Zambia explored ways to diversify their trade basket and discussed the potential for Zambia to import petroleum products from India at competitive prices. Capacity-building initiatives such as India’s e-VBAB online education program, which has already benefitted over 2,000 Zambian students, were recognized as essential to the partnership.
Expanding Multilateral Cooperation
India invited Zambia to join global initiatives like the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA), Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and Global Biofuels Alliance (GBA). India also welcomed Zambia’s ratification of the ISA Framework Agreement.
Commitment to Strengthened Partnership
The successful meeting underscored both countries’ dedication to strengthening their partnership across multiple domains. The two sides reiterated their commitment to a shared vision for growth and sustainable development, underscoring the mutual benefits of this longstanding friendship.
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