Tel Aviv

Israeli President Isaac Herzog hosted Zambian President Hakainda Hichilema in Jerusalem on Tuesday. The two discussed ways to deepen bilateral trade and cooperation, as well as regional threats posed by Iran. “Economic success is based on trade and investment,” Hichilema said. “That is why I want to explore opportunities within the relationship between us in light of Israel’s tremendous experience in technology in agriculture, health and water and other areas.”

Hichilema said he completed his graduation at a school built by Israel in Zambia, adding, “This is just one example of the relationship we have over the years.” A day earlier, the foreign ministers of the two countries signed cooperation agreements in Jerusalem to strengthen ties in the fields of medicine, communications, agriculture and culture. Relations are expanding in the context of Israel’s effort to expand the Abraham Accords and counter Iranian influence in Africa.

In recent days Israel’s Foreign Minister Eli Cohen and his Ivory Coast counterpart Candia Camara signed framework deals in the fields of agriculture, water and technology. Cohen led a business delegation to the West African country Israel-Ivory Coast Economic Forum. Cohen also met Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration Shirley Ayorkor Bochwe in Accra to strengthen Israel’s position within the African Union.