The opening remarks were delivered by Ambassador Jiří Kyrian, followed by Mr. Michal Rendla, Deputy Director General of the Industrial Cooperation Division of the Czech Ministry of Defence, and the Guest of Honour, Hon. Felix Mutati, Minister of Technology and Science of the Republic of Zambia. Among other distinguished guests were Hon. Mike Mposha, Minister of Green Economy and Environment, Her Worship Chitangala Chilango, Mayor of Lusaka, His Worship Vincent Lilanda, Mayor of Mazabuka, and a delegation of Czech defence industry representatives. 

In their addresses, the speakers recalled the significance of 28 October 1918 as the day marking the founding of independent Czechoslovakia and emphasized that freedom and sovereignty are never to be taken for granted, but are the result of courage, unity, and shared values. Ambassador Kyrian highlighted the achievements of the Embassy during its eight years of operation, during which Czechia has established itself as a reliable and respected partner of Zambia. He noted the intensification of bilateral activities over the past year and appreciated the presence of Czech defence companies exploring opportunities for cooperation with Zambian institutions in both civilian and defence sectors. The Ambassador also underlined Czechia’s long-standing tradition in technology, innovation, and tailor-made solutions, including opportunities for technology transfer and local investment.

Mr. Rendla, in his speech, recalled the 107th anniversary of the founding of independent Czechoslovakia and emphasized the relevance of historical experience for today’s world. He referred to the successful meetings of the Czech business delegation in Zambia and noted the great potential for expanding cooperation in defence, security, and innovation.

Hon. Felix Mutati, in his remarks, praised the long-standing Czech–Zambian relations based on mutual respect and pragmatic partnership. He acknowledged Czech activities in agriculture, education, health, and infrastructure, as well as the contribution of the MEDEVAC programme, scholarships for Zambian students, and development cooperation initiatives. The Minister highlighted the success of the Tech4Zambia Innovation Forum, held the previous day (27 October), and proposed making it an annual platform for advancing technological and innovation partnerships.

A Development Cooperation Corner formed part of the reception, where key Czech and local implementing partners presented their activities and projects: People in Need, Mendel University in Brno (MENDELU), Care International, Future Resources Development Association, Caritas Czech Republic, and the Czech Development Agency (CzechAid). Visitors learned about Czech-supported projects in sustainable agriculture, rural development, education, and environmental protection. With the support of the Czech Development Cooperation, the Embassy also presented virtual reality videos produced jointly with the Embassy of the Czech Republic in Addis Ababa, showcasing Czech development initiatives in Zambia.

During the evening, Ambassador Kyrian officially launched the new joint hashtag #ZambiaKuChaloCzechia, symbolizing Czech–Zambian friendship and the two nations’ shared vision of innovation and sustainable development (“Ku Chalo” in a local language means “forward, to the world, to the future”).

The musical highlight of the evening was a performance by renowned Zambian artist Becky Chanteuse, who also performed both the Czech and Zambian national anthems.

The reception took place in a warm and friendly atmosphere, reaffirming the growing visibility and prestige of the Czech Republic as a trusted and active partner in Zambia, particularly in the fields of development cooperation, technology, innovation, and defence industry. The attendance of high-ranking government representatives and Czech business delegates underscored the mutual interest in further strengthening bilateral relations — in the spirit of the new motto #ZambiaKuChaloCzechia.