Japan-Zambia Relations

Prime Minister Ishiba expressed his hope to deepen bilateral relations and cooperation in the international arena to maintain and strengthen a free and open international order based on the rule of law with Zambia which shares values and principles, noting that Zambia and Japan celebrated the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations last year. Prime Minister Ishiba praised the signing of the “Agreement between Japan and the Republic of Zambia for the Promotion and Protection of Investment (the Japan-Zambia Investment Agreement)” and the holding of the Japan-Zambia Business Forum as major achievements of this visit and stated that he would like to further boost economic relations with Zambia.
In response, President Hichilema appreciated the warm welcome he received during his visit to Japan, and welcomed the signing of the Investment Agreement, and expressed his hope that this would promote investment from Japan to Zambia and deepen the bilateral economic relations.
At the beginning of the meeting, in the presence of both leaders, the signed Japan-Zambia Investment Agreement was presented by H.E. Mr. TAKEUCHI Kazuyuki, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Japan to the Republic of Zambia, and Honourable Chipoka MULENGA, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry of the Republic of Zambia.

1. Prime Minister Ishiba stated that the Osaka-Kansai Expo, which will be held from April, is a great opportunity to showcase Zambia's appeals and strengthen ties with Japanese companies and expressed his expectation for further cooperation with Zambia.
2. Prime Minister Ishiba also stated that he would like to promote cooperation in the field of mineral resources with Zambia, a resource-rich country, through JOGMEC's mineral exploration and the assistance being provided with the World Bank.
3. Furthermore, Prime Minister Ishiba stated that the Government of Japan decided to provide support of Irrigation and smart farming for smallholders as a response to climate change. Prime Minister Ishiba also mentioned that the Government of Japan would consider specific cooperation toward the development of infrastructure and the enhancement of regional connectivity. In response, President Hichilema expressed his appreciation for Japan's support in various fields and stated that he would like to cooperate with Japan for the high value-adding of resources.
4. The two leaders shared their view that they will continue to work closely to follow-up the discussion through the mechanism of the Japan-Zambia Policy Dialogue which was just established.

1. Prime Minister Ishiba recognized that Zambia becomes the first case of reaching agreement of debt restructuring under the G20 Common Framework, and the two leaders concurred in sending out the message together on the critical importance of compliance with international rules and standards by all creditor countries for transparent and fair finance.
2. Prime Minister Ishiba also expressed his hope to work closely with President to co-create innovative solutions to African and global challenges in TICAD 9 to be held in Yokohama in August this year.
3. President Hichilema expressed his appreciation to Japan’s cooperating with the University of Zambia's Faculty of Veterinary Medicine which is a hub for infectious disease control in the region, and the two leaders concurred to work together through this cooperation.
4. The two leaders also exchange views on international affairs, such as strengthening the functions of the UN including Security Council reform and confirmed that they will continue to work closely together.

In addition, both sides issued the Fact Sheet summarizing the concurred items at this Summit Meeting.