Government has assured the diplomatic community and investors of uninterrupted business operations before, during, and after the August 2026 general elections, citing economic diplomacy as a key pillar of Zambia’s foreign policy.

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Princess Kasune said Zambia remains focused on diversifying the economy, attracting investment, and fostering trade relations.

She was speaking during a special ministerial briefing for the African Group of Ambassadors/ High Commissioners and Consuls General, in Lusaka.

Ms Kasune said that as the country continues to emphasise economic diplomacy as one of the pillars of foreign policy, with an acute focus on diversifying the Zambian economy, attracting investments and fostering trade relations remains at the core.

She added that government continues to engage cooperating partners to position Zambia as a hub for sustainable business, trade and investment.

Ms Kasune said elections remain cardinal to democratic processes which provide an enabling environment to foster economic development through various mechanisms with foreign partners.

The Minister further said that the country welcomes all international election observer missions to monitor the 2026 polls, noting that it contributes to credibility and transparency of the election process before, during and after.

She added that Zambia remains committed to supporting elections across Africa through the African Union and SADC Observer Missions.

“Zambian observers have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with our brothers and sisters supporting electoral processes in the various sisterly nations in SADC,” she stated.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary for Administration, Margaret Miyoba reaffirmed government commitment to strong ties with the African Diplomatic Corps.

“We are delighted and grateful for your presence, which is a clear demonstration of the importance that you attach to our relations,” Ms Miyoba said.

“Ministry remains committed to promoting mutually beneficial collaboration and partnership with the Diplomatic Corps in general and more so to the African Group of Ambassadors/High Commissioners and Consuls General, with whom we share common interests, challenges and opportunities as well as similar geography, history and cultural perspectives,” she added. Lusaka Times