By Beatrice Chabaya
Speaker of the Senate of the Czech Republic, H.E. Miloš Vystrčil has announced a new Development Cooperation Programme for Zambia during his official visit to the country.
Speaking at State House after meeting President Hichilema, Vystrcil revealed that the programme, spanning from 2024 to 2030, aims to foster collaboration and address key areas of development.
“We debated about further perspectives of cooperation between the Czech Republic and Zambia, as well as our shared history. I saw a huge interest in cooperation in the field of rural development, agriculture, and combating drought,” Vystrčil said.
The discussions, held at the State House, centered on agriculture, rural development, inclusive social development, and public administration.
Vystrcil stated that through the programme, Czechia will provide Government-funded scholarships to Zambian students at Czech universities, promoting educational partnerships and mobility.
He assured that Czechia stands ready to assist Zambia in disaster relief efforts, particularly in combating severe drought, like the current one.
The programme’s objectives align with Zambia’s 8th National Development Plan and Vision 2030, aiming to establish Zambia as a prosperous middle-income nation by 2030.
Vystrčil also highlighted one notable aspect of cooperation, which is the MEDEVAC Programme, aimed at enhancing healthcare infrastructure and medical care capacity in Zambia.
“The Programme aims to offer direct assistance and systematically improve the availability and sustainability of healthcare,” Vystrčil added.
In addition to the development programme, some leading Czech firms and institutions in mining, technology, metallurgy, and machinery, have participated in the EU-Zambia Copper Value Chain Forum in Kitwe.
These companies bring expertise, innovation, and a commitment to environmental sustainability.
And President Hichilema and Vystrčil expressed optimism about the prospects of deeper engagement and mutual benefit between the two nations, stating that their shared commitment to fostering enduring partnerships promise shared prosperity and inclusive growth for both countries.
©️ Zambia Reports 2024