Zambia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have strengthened economic cooperation after signing Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) valued at an estimated US$2.14 billion across various sectors. The agreements were signed on Tuesday during President Hakainde Hichilema’s participation in a Zambia-UAE business forum in Abu Dhabi. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Information, the MoUs are aimed at deepening economic relations between the two countries, particularly through increased trade and investment. Speaking during the business forum, President Hichilema reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with the UAE through increased trade and investment, which he said would ultimately contribute to improving the living standards of Zambians. “I recognise the UAE’s experience in harnessing its natural resources to develop its economy and raise the living standards of its people, and Zambia has much to learn from this experience,” President Hichilema said. He said Zambia’s rich natural-resource base provides an important foundation for advancing economic development through increased investment, trade and domestic reforms. President Hichilema also outlined the Government’s Grow Zambia Agenda, which seeks to double the size of the Zambian economy while increasing revenue for public services, creating more jobs and expanding business opportunities. He further expressed anticipation for the signing of the Comprehensive Partnership Agreement between Zambia and the UAE, saying the agreement would contribute to increased trade and stronger economic ties between the two countries. “Let me reaffirm my government’s resolve to prioritising increased trade and domestic reforms in order to attract the investment required to grow the Zambian economy,” President Hichilema said. President Hichilema also expressed appreciation to UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan for the invitation to participate in the business forum. He reaffirmed Zambia’s readiness to welcome investors, stressing that the country remains open for business and investment.