28/10/2025
Press statement for immediate Release
Zambia and Japan Celebrate 61 Years of Enduring Friendship and Cooperation
Tokyo, 27th October 2025 ---Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan, Dr. Tobias Mulimbika, has reaffirmed the strong and enduring ties between Zambia and Japan as both countries mark 61 years of diplomatic relations, coinciding with Zambia’s 61st Independence Anniversary on the 24th of October.
Speaking during a luncheon held at his Residence in Tokyo to commemorate the occasion, Dr. Mulimbika underscored the shared values of peace, unity, and cooperation that have defined the two nations’ partnership since Zambia’s independence in 1964.
Ambassador Mulimbika noted that this year’s Independence theme, “61 Years of Peace and Unity: Building a Resilient and Prosperous Zambia,” reflects not only Zambia’s national journey of peace and progress but also the strength of its international partnerships.
He expressed deep appreciation to the Government and people of Japan for their steadfast support in advancing Zambia’s development across key sectors such as health, education, agriculture, mining, infrastructure, and energy.
He further highlighted Japan’s technical and development assistance through JICA and other institutions, which have enhanced Zambia’s human capital, community resilience, and institutional capacity.
The Ambassador also acknowledged the Japanese private sector for its growing role in Zambia’s economic transformation through investments that foster technology transfer, job creation, and innovation.
“As we look to the future Zambia remains open to deeper cooperation and new opportunities for partnership. Guided by our Eighth National Development Plan and Vision 2030, our focus is on building a diversified, resilient, and inclusive economy that welcomes innovation and sustainable investment.”he said.
In his remarks, Director-General for African Affairs at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr. Takao Imafuku, commended the close partnership between Japan and Zambia, describing the two nations as important partners united by shared values and principles.
He reaffirmed Japan’s commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation, particularly in the follow-up to the outcomes of TICAD 9.
Mr. Imafuku cited President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to Japan earlier this year as a major milestone, noting that one of its key highlights was the signing of the Japan–Zambia Bilateral Investment Agreement.
“Zambia is a country endowed with abundant mineral resources, particularly copper, whose global demand is expected to rise. The country also holds immense potential in agriculture and tourism, with attractions such as Victoria Falls and its vast national parks,” he said.
He added that the Government of Japan is expediting the necessary procedures for the early implementation of the investment agreement and will continue working to encourage increased Japanese investment in Zambia.
Mr. Imafuku also congratulated Zambia on the successful celebration of its National Day during the Osaka–Kansai Expo, expressing hope that the strong momentum generated through the Expo, President Hichilema’s visit, and TICAD 9 will further elevate Zambia–Japan relations to new heights.
Meanwhile, Shinagawa City Vice Mayor, Mr. Ariake Horikoshi, expressed gratitude for the close collaboration between the Embassy of Zambia and the Shinagawa Ward, where the Embassy is located.
He commended the ongoing cultural exchange programmes between schools in Shinagawa and Zambia, expressing optimism for expanded cooperation and deeper people-to-people exchanges.
The event was attended by senior officials from Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, representatives from the diplomatic corps, local authorities, Japanese companies, and friends of Zambia.
Issued by:
Faith Nabeene Chilube
First Secretary Press & PR
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia, Tokyo, Japan
