Cooperation with China can bring more mutual benefits while the revitalization of the China-aided Tanzania-Zambia railway will open up new opportunities for economic growth and serve future generations, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema said on Friday.
Hichilema was in the Chinese capital to attend the three-day Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), which wrapped up on Friday after bringing leaders from more than 50 African nations together for the largest diplomatic gathering hosted by China in recent years.
In an exclusive interview with the China Global Television Network (CGTN), Hichilema highlighted how China has a long-term and profound friendship with many African countries, which is evidenced by the successful conclusion of the 2024 FOCAC Summit.
"A number of us have bilateral relationships with China, spanning over many years. For us, over 60 years, it's our 60th anniversary. Over the years, we've done a lot of things together for mutual benefit, for the people of China, the people of Zambia. And I think, beyond the two peoples, usually these things benefit the larger global community," he said.
Last Wednesday, Hichilema, along with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on the revitalization project of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway, known as the TAZARA railway.
Hichilema also stressed the significance of the 1,860-kilometer-long cross-border transport link which was constructed in the early 1970s through an interest-free loan from China and is seen as a 'heritage asset'.
He said he hopes the revitalization project of the railway, which links Dar es Salaam in Tanzania with Zambia's Kapiri Mposhi, will help to both retain and increase jobs and boost the 'economic corridor' along the route, with the agriculture, mining, tourism and other sectors all reaping the rewards of the proposed upgrades.
"It opens up Africa in terms of logistics, trade, market access. And so our producers of goods and services can access markets, producers can access inputs, it's a two-way process. With it is growth, growth brings jobs, business opportunities, that also brings revenue, government revenue, treasure revenue to support our young in terms of providing them with education," he said.
The TAZARA railway was constructed as a turnkey project between 1970 and 1975 through an interest-free loan from China, with commercial operations starting in July 1976.
Revitalization of Tanzania-Zambia railway set to deliver more growth opportunities: Zambian President
Moon-themed lantern shows and a series of traditional performances have been held across China, enlivening the holiday spirit during the three-day Mid-Autumn Festival break.
On Mid-Autumn Festival night, moon-gazing is a time-honored and cherished tradition. In Shanghai, it has become popular to gather at lakesides or riversides where the moon's reflection can be seen in the water.
During the festival, the city's Yuyuan Garden created various moon-themed installations, combining them with mythological stories from the Classic of Mountains and Seas. They also featured folk performances, themed lantern displays, and special light shows, offering a unique festive experience.
"I think this is a must-visit spot in Shanghai, especially given how beautiful it is. Plus, it incorporates traditional Chinese culture, which perfectly aligns with the atmosphere of the Mid-Autumn Festival. I really love it - it's all about family and reunion," said a Shanghai local surnamed Zhang.
In Baizhang Town, Hangzhou City, east China's Zhejiang Province, a unique Fish Lantern Cultural Festival was held at the Shuttle Museum, a museum dedicated to weaving shuttles.
Villagers and tourists paraded along the roads and stream banks, holding exquisite peach blossom fish lanterns. The lanterns, vibrant and lifelike, symbolized the wish for "abundance every year and good fortune."
In Datong Ancient Town, Tongling City, east China's Anhui Province, the nighttime water dragon lantern performance and cultural night market have been bustling with activity during the holiday.
Dragon dancers skillfully waved the dragon lanterns, which spiraled and soared, creating various formations over the water.
The molten iron fireworks show, a folk art performance of throwing molten iron to create a fireworks-like display, was held on the river, creating a rare sight for spectators as countless golden sparks shot into the night sky of the ancient town before falling into the lake.
A drone performance was launched in Jingzhou City, central China's Hubei Province during the Mid-Autumn Festival. A thousand drones formed images of "Goddess of the Moon Chang'e," the "Jade Rabbit," and "Kongming Lanterns," creating poetic scenes together with the Moon afar.
"It's my first time watching a drone show, and I find it truly spectacular," said a tourist named Yu Duoduo.
In Dunhuang City, northwest China's Gansu Province, visitors gathered on the peaks of Mingsha Mountain to admire the stunning reflection of the Moon in the lake.
The Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese lunar calendar, is a cherished occasion for family reunions in China. It falls on September 17 this year.
Lantern shows, traditional performances delight moon-gazers during Mid-Autumn Festival
