Zambia and the United States have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening partnerships in health and technology. President Hakainde Hichilema said the two countries have great potential for cooperation in many areas such as shared values of their citizens’ wellbeing, peace and cooperation among others. President Hichilema said this when United States of America Assistant Secretary of State for Bureau Economic, Energy and Business Affairs, Caleb Orr, paid a courtesy on him at State House today.
The President emphasised the importance of the US-Zambia partnership and expressed confidence that the two countries would work together in the health services sector, including health reforms, and explore new opportunities for private partnerships. “We are happy to provide a private partnership and it is very important to us, and we are prepared for this,” he said. Mr Hichilema noted that technology is very important in driving national development.
The meeting between President Hichilema and Mr Orr aimed to strengthen ties between Zambia and the US, with both countries expressing enthusiasm for future cooperation. And United States of America Assistant Secretary of State for Bureau Economic, Energy and Business Affairs, Caleb Orr, disclosed that the U.S is offering a $2 billion grant package contingent on Zambia for implementing specific reforms and demonstrating reciprocal commitment to economic transparency and growth. “We are offering a curated package of technical support to inform, enact and implement key reforms that will unleash greater investment, create jobs and drive private sector led economic growth and development outcomes,” he said.
Read Full Article on Lusaka Times
[paywall]
Mr Orr also said the United States is eager to deepen economic and business collaboration with Zambia which will focus on innovative energy solutions and private sector driven growth that can boost health systems and technological advancement. He said the partnership aims to leverage U.S investments in clean energy and digital infrastructure, creating jobs and fostering sustainable development in Zambia. “We come to the table in good faith and will work together with your government in earnest and success of this new approach would position the country as a bold leader that will transform its economy for the sake of future generations,” he added.
[/paywall]
