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Government condemns remarks by the outgoing US Ambassador as a breach of diplomatic conduct and misrepresentation of Zambia’s position.
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Violation of Vienna Convention (1961): Comments interfered in host country’s internal affairs and disregarded diplomatic norms.
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Lack of formal diplomatic communication – concerns were not raised through proper channels, showing disregard for established procedures.
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Zambia-US relationship based on mutual respect, shared values, and strategic cooperation since 1964 – not on aid.
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Partnership built on equality between the two nations.
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Claims of unresponsiveness dismissed – the Ambassador was granted several high-level meetings, including with the President.
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Concerns already addressed through proper channels.
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Health agreement stalled due to unacceptable clauses on data sharing and privacy.
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Critical Minerals Agreement – Zambia rejects pressure and will not accept terms giving preferential treatment to foreign companies.
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National resources must benefit Zambians first; all agreements to be considered independently.
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Increased health funding – 30% budget rise, plus broader economic gains.
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Sovereignty reaffirmed – Government will not accept narratives that undermine its institutions or leadership.
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Open to constructive engagement based on respect and non‑interference.
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Diplomats urged to uphold professionalism and international standards.
Outgoing U.S. Ambassador’s remarks (as reported)
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On corruption: Zambia loses hundreds of millions of dollars annually to “petty corruption” and kickbacks demanded by bureaucrats and leaders, with no accountability.
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On unresponsive government: Zambian officials “can scarcely be bothered to take meetings” with U.S. officials or companies.
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On anti-corruption record: Government claims of fighting corruption are “rubbish” because no notable person has been arrested except those deemed disloyal.
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On health funding pause: One year after he announced a $50 million cut in health assistance over theft of medicines, “not a single notable person has been arrested.”
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On health system fragility: Zambia’s health system “crumbled almost overnight” when donor funding was paused, questioning its sustainability.
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On lack of engagement: Since January, there has been “effectively zero substantive engagement” from Zambian officials, with calls ignored and meetings cancelled.
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On Health MOU: Funding under the health MOU “should have started this month” but is languishing without engagement.
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On aid-for-minerals claims: Rejected allegations that the U.S. is threatening to withhold healthcare aid “unless we get critical minerals” – calling them “disgusting and patently false.”
