GOVERNMENT has expressed contentment with the continued support by the European Union (EU) toward different development programmes, among them, the development of the Lobito Corridor Rail Project.
Speaking when EU Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA KAROLINA STASIAK paid a courtesy on him this morning, Minister of Transport and Logistics Eng. MUSEBA F. TAYALI said despite all other competing needs, while other countries’ envelopes have dropped, the EU has maintained Zambia’s envelope at Euro 153 million for the period 2025 to 2027.
He said consistence in terms of engagement by the EU on the Lobito Corridor development is testament that the organisation remains a strategic partner for Zambia in the quest to develop the corridor that, he emphasises, will promote regional and economic integration and accelerating the aspiration of the African Union’s Africa Free Trade Area.

Hon. Tayali said Government is confident that Lobito will be the first smart corridor on the continent that will speak to how Africa should come of age in terms of operation of transport corridor.
And Ambassador STASIAK said as the EU celebrates 50 years of partnership with Zambia, the country remains a key partner.
She said the EU sees more trade investment and trade-based opportunities and an increased presence of EU companies.
Ms STASIAK said the EU looks forward to asserting its role globally with like-minded countries and Zambia is such a good example.
Meanwhile, EU Head of International Cooperation CLAUDIO BACIGALUPI said the ultimate goal is to attract business along the Lobito Corridor, hence many EU investors cannot wait to identify the various opportunities that come with the corridor development.
He said his team has done a good job to sell the investment opportunities and that many are waiting for the fruition of the project.