Zambia Rebukes US Ambassador’s Remarks as Undiplomatic

“Further, and characteristic of the outgoing Ambassador’s approach during his tour of duty, the remarks, which were delivered during a social event, were not communicated to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation through an official complaint, demarche, or any formal channel. This underscores a lack of respect for the receiving state and established diplomatic processes,” Haimbe said.

Haimbe also emphasised that Zambia’s relationship with the United States is not, and has never been, centred on aid.

He clarified that stalled negotiations on the Health Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) are due to provisions the Zambian government considers unacceptable, particularly those relating to data sharing that may violate citizens’ right to privacy.

He added that some of the matters are currently subject to litigation in Zambian courts and must be respected, noting that certain provisions are viewed as unconscionable from the perspective of the Zambian people.

Haimbe said the government remains committed to engaging in good-faith negotiations with all strategic partners, including the United States, particularly in areas such as critical minerals beneficiation, in a value-adding environment for the mutual benefit of Zambia and its partners.

(Mwebantu, Monday, 4th May, 2026)