CONGRATULATORY messages continue to pour in for President Hakainde Hichilema following his re-election and assumption of a new term of office, with the latest coming from the United Nations, Czech Republic, Thailand and the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC).
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres congratulated President Hichilema and reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to supporting Zambia in advancing national priorities and consolidating its democratic gains.
Mr Guterres also pledged continued UN support for Zambia’s implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals as the country pursues a prosperous future for all.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the UN chief’s message adds to a growing list of international goodwill messages extended to the Zambian leader.
Meanwhile, Czech Republic President Petr Pavel congratulated President Hichilema on his re-election, highlighting the long-standing relations and friendship between the two countries.
President Pavel said the relationship continues to deepen, while expressing confidence in further cooperation.
Similarly, Prime Minister of Thailand Anutin Charnvirakul congratulated President Hichilema and said Thailand stands ready to continue working with Zambia in advancing long-standing cooperation and strengthening bilateral ties.
Meanwhile, AFC president and chief executive officer Samaila Zubairu toasted President Hichilema’s re-election, saying the development partner is ready to play an impactful role in supporting the President’s vision for Zambia’s economic transformation.
And stakeholders say the continued flow of congratulatory and goodwill messages to President Hichilema following his re-election demonstrates Zambia’s growing international standing and presents an opportunity to strengthen the country’s economic diplomacy.
International relations expert Edgar Silwimba said recognition from major global powers, including the United States, China and Russia, is significant as it demonstrates international acceptance of Zambia’s leadership.
Mr Silwimba said the messages received from countries across Africa, Europe, Asia, the Middle East and America present Zambia with an opportunity to deepen bilateral relations, attract investment and strengthen its voice on the global stage.
He said the country has received more than 39 congratulatory messages, describing the response as a positive signal as President Hichilema begins his second term.
Mr Silwimba said the goodwill should now be converted into tangible economic opportunities through Zambia’s economic diplomacy agenda.
He said the messages also demonstrate the willingness of major powers to engage with Zambia and recognise the Government as legitimate and democratically elected.
Meanwhile, human rights champion and democracy specialist Ng’ande Mwanajiti said the international goodwill reflects confidence in President Hichilema’s leadership and Zambia’s political stability.
Mr Mwanajiti said the messages represent both approval and solidarity with Zambia, adding that the country’s reputation for peace remains an important asset in its international relations.
He said the continued recognition should encourage Zambians to appreciate the country’s standing in the international community.
Mr Mwanajiti said Zambia should use the goodwill to strengthen international partnerships while maintaining peace, stability and democratic values.
