Staff Reporter

Zambia's acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, has called for the removal of sanctions on Zimbabwe.

As reported by Lusaka Times, a prominent Zambian publication, Haimbe underscored the critical importance of fostering stability, peace, and security in the region through the elimination of restrictive measures imposed on Zimbabwe.

"Zambia urges the United States of America and other nations to lift sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe. There is an urgent need for progress in implementing shared ideals, such as inclusive democratic governance and institutional reform,"  Haimbe said.

This plea is as a robust diplomatic initiative, emphasizing Zambia's commitment to advancing democratic principles and catalysing institutional improvements as integral components of regional peace and stability.

Commenting on the development, political analyst Calvin Chitsunge, said Haimbe’s signals are an indication of increased level of cooperation between the two countries.

"These sentiments are clear evidence of an increased level of cooperation between the two countries, the growing synergy between Zambia and Zimbabwe, highlight a shared commitment to addressing common challenges and fostering a heightened sense of regional collaboration,” Chitsunge remarked

He added: "Zimbabwe's relations with Zambia are unmistakably improving, echoing broader sentiments between the two nations, both nations actively engaging in constructive discussions to navigate shared environmental challenges and promote mutual resilience implies a positive and deliberate shift in their diplomatic ties,”

Chitsunge also took a metaphorical approach to emphasize the simbiotic diplomatic ties between Zimbabwe and Zambia, which he likened to those of Siamese twins.

"Nothing in the foreseeable future can sever the inseparable bond between the two countries; bilateral relations.  Zambia and Zimbabwe’s ties undoubtedly continue to grow stronger.”

Zambia's call for sanctions removal on Zimbabwe signals a broader commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties. There is a positive trajectory in the relations between these Southern African neighbours, fostering hope for enhanced collaboration and shared prosperity in the region.