HH Egypt visit critically beneficial

STATE visits by Presidents of different countries hold noteworthy importance in that they help strengthen diplomatic relations between nations.
Such high-level visits provide an opportunity for heads of State to discuss bilateral and multilateral issues, fostering better understanding and cooperation.
These visits often include discussions on trade and investment.
Heads of State can sign agreements and memorandums of understanding (MoUs) that promote economic cooperation, opening up new markets and opportunities for businesses.
This is precisely what President Hakainde Hichilema’s State visit to Egypt entails, as it has already culminated in the signing of nine MoUs between the two countries.
Critical among the MoUs is the one in the field of agriculture. We say this MoU is crucial because it is poised to bring several benefits to Zambia, leveraging Egypt’s expertise in this sector.
Egypt has made significant advancements in agricultural technology and practices.
Through the MoU, Zambia stands to benefit from the transfer of this technology, which can help improve crop productivity and farming efficiency.
The MoU in the field of agriculture will facilitate joint agricultural research initiatives.
This collaboration can lead to the development of new crop varieties, pest control methods, and sustainable farming practices tailored to Zambia’s specific needs.
Egypt’s experience in agriculture can be utilised to train Zambian farmers and agricultural professionals.
This capacity-building effort can enhance the skills and knowledge of Zambian farmers, leading to better agricultural practices and increased yields.
Furthermore, Egypt’s expertise in agricultural mechanisation can be shared with Zambia. This can help modernise Zambia’s agricultural sector, making it more efficient and productive.
Moreover, the MoU will open new markets for Zambian agricultural products by leveraging Egypt’s established marketing systems.
This will boost Zambia’s agricultural exports and contribute to the country’s economic growth.
By adopting best practices from Egypt, Zambia can promote sustainable agricultural development.
This includes efficient water management, soil conservation, and environmentally friendly farming techniques.
Therefore, President Hichilema’s State visit to Egypt holds immense significance.
The President’s visit includes high-level discussions on trade and investment opportunities between the two nations.
The leaders witnessed the signing of a series of cooperation agreements to bolster bilateral ties and encourage Egypt’s public and private sectors to become actively involved in Zambia.
President Hichilema stressed the importance of private sector participation in financing capital projects.
He toured Egypt’s newly constructed Administrative Capital for Urban Development, which was developed by private sector players without any funding from the national treasury.
This model of public-private partnership is something Zambia is looking to adopt to ease pressure on national treasuries and allocate more resources to critical social sectors such as health and education.
Presidents Hichilema and Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt further discussed major African challenges such as poverty, debt, and climate change.
They agreed on the need for coordinated action to advance the continent’s priorities globally.
The State visit has also highlighted the importance of utilising frameworks like the African Continental Free Trade Area, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa, and the Tripartite Free Trade Area to boost trade between the two nations.
Over and above, President Hichilema’s visit to Egypt is expected to foster stronger bilateral relations, promote economic cooperation, and encourage private sector-led development in Zambia.