Source: Africa Publicity
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has described his Friday meeting with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Harare as a turning point in the relationship between the two neighbouring nations, announcing a major upgrade of their cooperation framework.
“Today in Harare, Zimbabwe, we marked an important milestone with the elevation of our cooperation framework from the Joint Permanent Commission to the Bi-National Commission,” President Hichilema said in a statement issued on Friday evening, November 14, 2025 following the meeting in Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe.
He noted that the shift “opens a new chapter in our partnership,” adding that his discussions with President Mnangagwa covered “trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, public health, and regional cooperation in a positive and constructive atmosphere.”
Energy cooperation featured prominently in the talks. Hichilema welcomed Zimbabwe’s new policy direction, saying: “We welcomed Zimbabwe’s decision to scrap transit duties on petroleum products starting 27 November 2025, as part of its 2026 National Budget. Our teams will continue technical work on this until March 2026.”
He added that the two countries had “agreed on arrangements that will support Zambia’s electricity imports through Zimbabwe, with Zimbabwe set to progressively increase power-transfer capacity. These measures will help strengthen energy security for both countries.”
With the new Bi-National Commission now in place, Hichilema said joint projects would be expedited, citing “the Victoria Falls–Livingstone One-Stop Border Post, the Batoka Gorge Hydropower Project, and the Joint Management Plan for the World Heritage Site.”
Emphasising the deep historical and cultural bonds between the two nations, the President stated: “Zambia and Zimbabwe are like Siamese twins, and our meetings have renewed confidence in the future of our cooperation.” He closed his message with appreciation for the hospitality extended during the visit: “We thank President Mnangagwa, the Government, and the people of Zimbabwe for their warm hospitality.”
