Zambia, Tanzania sign deal with China Railway to revive TAZARA operations

Zambia and Tanzania have signed an agreement with China Railway Construction Limited for the revitalisation of the TAZARA Railway Line, a key project aimed at enhancing trade in the region.

President Hakainde Hichilema expressed gratitude to China for its commitment to reviving the strategic railway line, highlighting its importance in boosting economic activities.

The announcement came through his official Facebook page on Wednesday, following a bilateral meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

“Earlier, we were joined by Her Excellency the President of the United Republic of Tanzania and witnessed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with China Railway Construction Limited (CRCC) for the revitalisation of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA),” Hichilema wrote.

During the meeting in Beijing, President Hichilema and President Xi discussed strengthening the long-standing friendship and cooperation between Zambia and China.

Hichilema also expressed his appreciation for the invitation to the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), describing it as a platform that would enhance collaboration across various sectors at a critical moment for Zambia’s economic growth.

Hichilema highlighted the increased economic activity between Zambia and China since the bilateral relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership in September 2023.

He thanked President Xi for China’s support in infrastructure, energy, and mining sectors.

“As our country’s Chief Marketing Officer, our focus is to pursue economic diplomacy that will ultimately benefit our people,” he stated, emphasising the importance of China’s role in maintaining global peace and security, which allows both nations to concentrate resources on economic development.

After his meeting with President Xi, President Hichilema also engaged with officials from Power China to discuss potential solutions to Zambia’s energy challenges.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.