On September 5, 2024, the China-Zambia Investment and Trade Forum, commemorating the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia, took place in Beijing. Hosted by the Embassy of the Republic of Zambia in China, this significant event garnered extensive attention from governments, businesses, and media across both nations. Its goal was to reinforce bilateral cooperation, advance sustainable development, and contribute to global economic recovery. 

GLA Global Logistics Alliance President, Ms. Grace Sun, made a powerful impact at the forum, highlighting her leadership in the global logistics arena. She was invited to engage in a strategic dialogue with Zambian President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, focusing on driving sustainable growth in the logistics sector. This dynamic exchange between government and industry leaders has sparked renewed energy and strengthened the ties between China and Africa.

GLA Global Logistics Alliance as a global logistics network is dedicated to "creating a better world for global logistics" by connecting professional and reliable logistics enterprises and integrating them into a cohesive global ecosystem. Recognizing Africa’s strategic importance due to its rich natural resources, expanding consumer market, and crucial geographic position, GLA emphasizes its role as a key link in global trade routes connecting Europe, Asia, and the Americas. To elevate Africa’s position in global logistics, GLA hosted the GLA Africa Regional Forum 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, uniting over 200 entrepreneurs from more than 54 African nations to explore new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

GLA underscores a broader vision of fostering the common development of the global economy, aiming to bridge gaps between continents and promote international cooperation across global markets. By advocating for balanced global economic growth, GLA supports a cooperative approach that transcends national policies and geopolitical boundaries, emphasizing inclusivity and mutual benefit.

The China-Zambia Investment and Trade Forum was held under the theme of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC): “Joining Hands to Advance Modernization and Build a High-Level China-Africa Community with a Shared Future.” The forum reviewed the development of China-Africa relations, acknowledged the progress achieved through FOCAC’s initiatives, and reached a strong consensus on enhancing cooperation between the two regions.

During the forum, Zambian President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema highlighted the significance of China-Zambia relations in economic development, infrastructure, and cultural exchanges. He acknowledged China as a crucial partner in Zambia’s investment and trade ventures and expressed eagerness to further collaboration to advance green economic growth in alignment with Zambia's "2030 Sustainable Development Goals."

Mr. Albert Halwampa, Director of the Zambian Development Agency, discussed Zambia’s open policies aimed at attracting more foreign investment, particularly in agriculture, mining, and manufacturing. He highlighted Zambia’s rich natural resources and market potential, promising more opportunities for Chinese enterprises in the future.

Mr. Long Yuxiang, Executive Chairman of the China International Culture Communication Center, warmly welcomed the Zambian President’s visit. He said Zambia was the first Southern African country to establish diplomatic relations with China, and the traditional friendship forged by the older generation of leaders from both countries has stood the test of time and remains strong. In recent years, under the strategic guidance of the leaders of both countries, China-Zambia relations have actively developed and been upgraded to a comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership, pointing the way forward for the future development of China-Zambia relations.

President GLA, Ms. Grace Sun warmly welcomed all African participants and shared her vision for China-Africa cooperation. She said that Africa is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for international investment and inquired about the safety, reliability, and sustainability of national investments from an African perspective.

During the open Q&A session at the forum, Zambian President, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema actively engaged with attendees' inquiries. Notably, he interacted directly with Ms. Grace Sun, President of GLA, who underscored Africa’s emerging role as a prime destination for international investment, drawing significant global attention and resources. Ms. Sun emphasized her mission to integrate Africa into the global logistics ecosystem and inquired about the Zambian government’s approach to ensuring investment security, reliability, and sustainable development.

President Hichilema provided a detailed response, highlighting Zambia's dedication to creating a stable and attractive investment environment since gaining independence on October 24, 1964. He noted that through the leadership of seven presidents, Zambia has continuously implemented transparent and secure national policies, established a robust legal framework, and maintained a safe business atmosphere that protects investors' rights. He further elaborated that China-Africa cooperation extends beyond mutual economic benefits, serving as a strategic initiative to address broader global economic challenges, and called on the international community to increase their focus on Africa, fostering regional industrial transformation and economic growth.

The forum underscored the critical importance of China-Africa economic and trade partnerships. It provided an excellent platform for dialogue, fostering enhanced cooperation and connectivity between China and Africa and offering new impetus for global economic recovery.

The China-Zambia Investment and Trade Forum underscores China's commitment to aligning its national strategies with African countries. Africa’s rapid urbanization and youthful demographic provide a solid foundation for its role in the global economy. With the advancement of the "Belt and Road" initiative, Africa’s 54 countries are increasingly positioned to connect with global markets and share in economic growth benefits.

As a leading global logistics network, GLA Global Logistics Alliance is dedicated to advancing collaboration in logistics and international trade. GLA champions initiatives that link logistics enterprises across borders, aiming to enhance global connectivity and drive a more integrated and efficient global logistics ecosystem.