UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan met Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday, with discussions focusing on expanding economic cooperation, trade, investment and development partnerships between the two countries.
Hichilema, who is on a working visit to the United Arab Emirates, was welcomed by Sheikh Mohamed, who congratulated him on his new presidential term and wished him success in advancing Zambia’s development priorities.
According to the UAE’s state news agency WAM, the two leaders reviewed the development of bilateral relations, particularly in renewable energy, infrastructure and economic cooperation, while exploring opportunities to expand partnerships in sectors of mutual interest.
Both presidents reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening relations that span more than five decades, with trade and investment identified as key areas for further cooperation.
The discussions also highlighted the two countries’ shared interest in economic diversification and development partnerships aimed at supporting sustainable growth and creating new opportunities for their respective economies.
A central focus of the meeting was the ongoing negotiations over a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which both sides hope will provide a broader framework for expanding economic ties.
The proposed agreement is expected to facilitate closer cooperation between government institutions and private businesses, while opening new opportunities for investment and trade once finalised.
The talks come as Zambia seeks to attract foreign investment and strengthen its economic partnerships, while the UAE continues to expand its commercial and development engagement across Africa.
