During a recent visit to Lusaka, Foreign Minister Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey met with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, where they discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and investment. President Hichilema emphasized the significance of economic stability and development for both countries' political stability.
Madam Botchwey's visit resulted in the signing of two Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with her Zambian counterpart, covering various areas such as promoting commercial, economic, cultural, technical, scientific, and political cooperation, as well as defence cooperation, including training and development.
Behind closed doors, discussions also touched on Madam Botchwey's candidacy for Commonwealth Secretary-General. Ghana and Zambia, both members of the Commonwealth, share historical ties dating back to their independence struggles led by Presidents Nkrumah and Kaunda.
Ghanaian diplomats in Lusaka highlighted the enduring affinity for Ghana in Zambia, citing the legacy left by Ghanaian professionals and academics who settled and worked in the country from the post-independence era through the eighties. This historical connection serves as a strong foundation for fostering a robust business relationship, especially with the advent of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
In a recent lecture in Accra, Madam Botchwey outlined her vision for a “new Commonwealth,” emphasizing trade and investment, harnessing ICT for skills and innovation, and addressing climate change. She advocated for concerted action within the Commonwealth to tackle climate change, particularly its disproportionate impact on small island developing states.
