21/11/2025
China a good brother, partner and friend of Zambia – Premier Li
By State House Media
Premier Li Qiang of China says his country is a good brother, partner and friend of Zambia and the relationship should be cemented further.
Premier Li, the second highest official in the Chinese government, held bilateral talks with President Hakainde Hichilema at State House in Lusaka today.
He conveyed warmest regards and best wishes to President Hichilema from China’s President Xi Jinping.
Mr Li said Zambia is an important country on the African continent.
“Under your (President Hichilema) leadership over the years, Zambia has pursued reforms and grown the economy, achieving significant outcomes.
“China is very happy for Zambia. China is a good brother, partner and friend of Zambia. We would like to further cement political mutual trust, firmly supporting each other’s core interests and major concerns and steadily enrich our comprehensive strategic partnership,” said Mr Li.
President Hichilema thanked President Xi Jinping for allowing Mr Li to visit Zambia.
The President said since Zambia’s independence in 1964, the country has had a bilateral relationship with China.
“This is a relationship that was guided by Chairman Mao Zedong and President Kenneth Kaunda. We have done a lot together between the governments of China and Zambia,” he said.
President Hichilema said Tanzania Zambia Railway (TAZARA) rail line is a landmark representation of the Zambia – China friendship.
“It was constructed in the 1970s at a time when China was not successful as it is today. But the Chinese people took a decision to support their brothers and sisters in Zambia in constructing the rail line to open Zambia’s trade on to the sea – the Indian Ocean.
“We had the southern route closed because of the colonial era issues then. We want to thank China for constructing TAZARA,” he said.
President Hichilema emphasised that Zambia is grateful that it has an enduring bond with China.
“We can confirm that we are walking the path carved by Chairman Mao and President Kaunda.
“We the subsequent leaders in China and Zambia must continue walking this progressive path of common interest,” the President said.
President Hichilema further underscored that Zambia acknowledges the One China policy.
“We maintain that position, as we walk the path that will offer great opportunities for our citizens.
“We will continue working together, irrespective of the winds around. We are clear in our intentions that this is a friendship that must be further developed by us and those coming after us,” said President Hichilema.
November 20, 2025
