Canada has reopened its high commission in Zambia after nearly 15 years in a move that signals renewed diplomatic efforts to expand trade and investment between the two countries.
Speaking at the inauguration of the mission in Lusaka on Monday, Zambia’s Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe said the restored diplomatic presence would strengthen economic cooperation and support Zambia’s drive to attract international investment.
The move builds on more than six decades of diplomatic relations between Zambia and Canada.
Canada’s High Commissioner to Zambia, Corry Van Gaal said the reopening would create new opportunities for economic collaboration.
Canada is already a major investor in Zambia’s mining sector, with Canadian mining assets in the country valued at about US$12 billion in 2024, making Zambia Canada’s fifth-largest overseas mining investment destination.
Van Gaal said Canada has also provided approximately US$210 million in development assistance to Zambia since 2021, demonstrating the longstanding cooperation that extends beyond trade and investment.
The reopening comes as bilateral trade between the two countries reached US$97 million in 2025, with Zambia targeting a doubling of trade and investment within the next five years.
Key areas of cooperation include mining, renewable energy, fibre processing and support for small businesses.
The reopening is expected to further deepen economic, development and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
JN/APA