During the meeting, the two presidents discussed the development of Angola’s planned Lobito Refinery – in which Zambia has a stake – and various other infrastructure projects expected to link the two countries, including an oil and gas pipeline, rail and road corridor and electricity transmission line.
Underpinned by the need to improve energy security and reduce fuel prices, Zambia’s move to import from Angola is largely based on the strong bilateral ties previously established between the two countries.
Last April, the Zambian Government announced its intention to own a stake in the upcoming Lobito Refinery while the two nations have additionally pursued a feasibility study for an oil and gas pipeline to link the refinery to Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka.
H.E. President Hichilema stated, “It makes no sense to import fuel from other parts of the world when we have a neighboring producer.”
Cementing this position, H.E. President Lourenço added, “It is very natural that Zambia, as our neighbor, has a great interest in acquiring these fuels in Angola…especially when Angola has a greater capacity to refine the crude oil it extracts.”
