China’s Premier Li Qiang began a landmark visit to Zambia on November 19, the first by a Chinese premier in nearly three decades, in a move widely viewed as strengthening Beijing’s long-standing economic and political ties with the copper-rich nation. The trip highlights China’s renewed engagement across Africa as global competition for influence intensifies. This update was reported by Reuters.
China remains Zambia’s largest official bilateral creditor, holding about 5.7 billion dollars in loans. Reuters reported that Premier Li’s visit aims to reinforce cooperation in infrastructure, mining and industrial development at a time when Western nations are expanding their own investment strategies on the continent.
The state broadcaster ZNBC stated that Li’s agenda includes discussions on reviving major projects such as the historic Tanzania–Zambia Railway Authority, alongside new initiatives that could boost collaboration in manufacturing, machinery and green energy technology. Zambian officials said the visit aligns with the country’s efforts to diversify investment partners and strengthen economic recovery after years of financial pressure.
According to MarketScreener’s analysis, Li’s arrival underscores Zambia’s rising importance in global supply chains and the broader geopolitical contest shaping Africa’s resource and infrastructure landscape. Analysts note that Zambia’s ability to balance relationships with both Eastern and Western partners will be critical to its development pathway in the coming years.
