Zambia and Israel officially pledged on Thursday to strengthen their vital cooperation and bilateral ties between Lusaka and Tel Aviv. Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema hosted Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar at State House in the capital, Lusaka.
Hichilema stated that Zambia offers key opportunities in critical minerals and water harvesting for development with Israeli investment. He recalled his 2023 state visit to Israel where a general framework agreement was signed to enhance cooperation between the two nations.
The president praised Sa’ar for the historic move of reopening the Israeli embassy in Lusaka after five decades of its closure. He said this move reflects the two countries’ long-standing friendship based on mutual respect and shared values and beliefs.
Sa’ar stated his visit is part of a larger strategic goal to strengthen Jerusalem-Africa engagement throughout the current year 2025. The foreign minister emphasized that his visit signifies a new chapter in Israel’s enduring friendship with the entire nation of Zambia.