Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, Rt. Hon. Nelly B K Mutti, SC, FAPRA, MP has hailed the Republic of Türkiye as a vital contributor to global trade and sustainable development, the speaker said during a courtesy call by the Ambassador of Türkiye to Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Huseyin Barbaros Dicle, at Parliament Buildings on Monday, 14th July, 2025.

Speaker Mutti expressed gratitude to the Ambassador for the visit and notered the deep-rooted bilateral ties between Zambia and Türkiye, which date back to 1964 when Zambia gained independence.

“The strong partnership between the two countries is built on shared values such as democracy, good governance, and respect for human rights.The Zambian people have benefited from Türkiye’s cooperation in key sectors like education, health, tourism, media, and national security.” she said.

The Rt. Hon. Mutti drew attention to the expanding partnerships at parliamentary level, citing the establishment of the Zambia-Türkiye Parliamentary Friendship Group in 2019 as a significant milestone in enhancing legislative exchange and mutual learning.

His Excellency, Mr. Huseyin Barbaros Dicle said, Türkiye’s commitment to strengthening ties with Zambia and noted the country’s support during the opening of the International Maarif School of Lusaka. He called for enhanced cooperation in the agriculture, energy, and tourism sector, stressing the importance of parliamentary engagement in deepening democracy.

The Deputy Chief of Mission Ms. Betul Akbal  highlighted some of the developmental initiatives being supported by the Turkish Embassy in Zambia, including the provision of drought relief in 2023/2024. Other initiatives include skills training programs for urban communities in Lusaka and the renovation of the kitchen at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH).

The visit Strengthened the strong Zambia-Türkiye partnership and highlighted a shared commitment to deepening cooperation in trade, development, and parliamentary diplomacy.