Lusaka- China’s Premier of the State Council, Li Qiang, is scheduled to visit Zambia from 19th to 20th November 2025, at the invitation of President Hakainde Hichilema, in a mission poised to strengthen the decades-long partnership between the two nations.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, the visit “reaffirms the continued strengthening of the historic and mutually beneficial relations between the two countries.” The Ministry further highlighted that the upcoming engagement follows President Hichilema’s successful State Visit to China in 2023, during which both countries elevated their ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Cooperative Partnership.

While in Lusaka, Premier Li Qiang will hold bilateral talks with President Hichilema at State House. Discussions will center on key areas such as trade and investment, transport and logistics, energy, mining, agriculture, and technology. The two leaders will also assess progress on several joint projects and cooperation agreements.

A major focus of the visit will be the revitalization of the Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA) , a landmark symbol of Zambia–China cooperation built in the early 1970s. The visit comes shortly after Zambia and Tanzania signed a concession agreement to upgrade and rehabilitate the TAZARA rail line, aiming to modernize the corridor and improve regional connectivity. The statement notes that the leaders will “review progress on the implementation of various agreements and projects, including the revitalization of TAZARA.”

The Ministry also highlighted China’s recognition of Zambia’s growing strategic role in the region, stating that the visit “reflects the shared vision of both countries’ leadership to foster sustainable economic transformation through partnership, innovation, and mutual respect.”

Premier Li Qiang is expected to depart Zambia on 20th November 2025 at the conclusion of his engagements.