BY SIKELELA MATSENJWA
MBABANE – The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Senator Pholile Shakantu, yesterday welcomed H.E. Derick Livune, Zambia’s designate High Commissioner Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Kingdom of Eswatini, in a development that underscores deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
The engagement highlights the growing momentum in bilateral relations between Eswatini and Zambia, with both countries making notable progress in advancing cooperation across key sectors critical to regional development.
Central to this strengthened partnership are landmark agreements signed in 2023, which continue to shape a shared vision for peace, stability, and sustainable growth in Southern Africa.
Among these is the Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security, a strategic framework aimed at enhancing collaboration in defence matters while promoting peace and stability within both nations and across the region. The agreement reflects a unified commitment to safeguarding national and regional security.
In the economic sphere, the Memorandum of Understanding on Trade and Investment Cooperation is unlocking new opportunities for growth by strengthening trade relations and encouraging investment between the two countries. This partnership is expected to stimulate economic activity, create jobs, and support inclusive development.
Equally significant is the Memorandum of Understanding on Forestry Cooperation, which prioritises sustainable forest management and fosters collaboration in environmental conservation. This initiative aligns with global sustainability goals while supporting local livelihoods and preserving natural resources.
The arrival of High Commissioner-designate Livune marks a renewed chapter in Eswatini–Zambia relations, signalling a shared determination to translate agreements into tangible outcomes that benefit citizens.
As both nations continue to build on this solid foundation, their partnership stands as a model of regional cooperation—driven by mutual respect, shared priorities, and a collective ambition for a more secure, prosperous, and sustainable future.
