Lusaka, May 4, 2026 — The Government of the Republic of Zambia has expressed strong displeasure over remarks made by outgoing United States Ambassador to Zambia Michael Gonzales, describing his farewell statement as undiplomatic, regrettable and inconsistent with international diplomatic standards.
In a detailed response delivered by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hon. Mulambo Haimbe SC, MP, Government said the ambassador’s assertions made during a farewell reception held on April 30, 2026, at the US Ambassador’s official residence in Lusaka were not only inappropriate but also in violation of diplomatic protocols.
Zambia Cites Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations
According to the statement, Zambia believes the outgoing envoy’s remarks contravened the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961, particularly Article 3 and Article 41, which outline the functions of a diplomatic mission and prohibit diplomats from interfering in the internal affairs of host nations.
Government said the remarks were “deeply regrettable” and showed a pattern of disregard for diplomatic processes.
Government Rejects Claims US-Zambia Relations Are Aid-Based
The Ministry further dismissed the outgoing ambassador’s reported suggestion that Zambia’s relationship with the United States has been centered around aid.
Hon. Haimbe emphasized that since Zambia and the US established diplomatic relations on October 24, 1964, the partnership has been built on shared values, mutual respect and strategic cooperation, not dependency.
“The relationship between Zambia and the United States is not, nor has it ever been, centred around aid,” the statement read.
Health MOU and Critical Minerals Agreement Still Under Negotiation
Government also addressed concerns raised regarding stalled negotiations on a proposed Health Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in which the United States had offered support of up to US$2 billion over five years.
Zambia clarified that negotiations are ongoing but have faced challenges due to terms Government considers unacceptable, particularly provisions involving the sharing of citizens’ data, which Zambia says may violate privacy rights.
The statement revealed that some issues connected to the proposed terms are already subject to litigation in Zambian courts.
On the proposed critical minerals agreement, Government stated that Zambia is reluctant to accept terms that suggest preferential treatment for US companies, insisting that Zambians must have priority and a say in how the country’s critical minerals are utilized.
Zambia Accuses Ambassador of Misleading the Public
Government accused Ambassador Gonzales of attempting to paint an unfair picture of Zambia and exaggerating claims of Government “inertia.”
The Ministry further objected to what it described as the ambassador’s attempt to link agreements together, suggesting that Zambia sign one deal only if another is concluded.
Zambia said it remains committed to negotiations but insisted that each agreement must be considered independently and in good faith.
Government Highlights Progress in Anti-Corruption and Economy
Hon. Haimbe also challenged the outgoing envoy’s alleged remarks about corruption and governance, stating that the Zambian Government has made measurable progress.
The statement disclosed that:
US$30 million has recently been recovered and forfeited to the State through asset recovery efforts.
156 arrests have been made nationwide regarding health commodity theft.
76 convictions have been secured so far.
Government said it was misleading for the outgoing ambassador to claim that no tangible action had been taken.
Zambia Rejects Claims Investors Are Shunning the Country
The Foreign Affairs Ministry also dismissed claims suggesting that foreign investors are avoiding Zambia.
Government stated that Zambia is increasingly being recognized as an attractive destination for trade and investment, citing over US$12 billion in new mining investments and progress toward achieving the target of producing 3 million metric tonnes of copper.
The statement also highlighted improved macroeconomic stability, with Zambia reportedly moving from a negative GDP growth rate of -2.8% in 2021 to a more stable growth trajectory.
Zambia Warns Diplomats Against Interference
Government warned that Zambia remains a sovereign nation whose laws and leadership must be respected, adding that it will not tolerate narratives that undermine its dignity or institutions.
Hon. Haimbe urged diplomats to remain guided by international law and respect Zambia’s internal processes.
Zambia Sees Ambassador’s Departure as Chance to Reset Relations
Despite the strong rebuke, Government said it remains committed to maintaining strong ties with the United States and expressed hope that the ambassador’s departure provides an opportunity for relations to improve.
“As we bid him farewell, we are confident that his departure presents a unique opportunity for US–Zambia relations to once again blossom,” the statement said.
Government also urged both Zambians and international partners to ignore the outgoing ambassador’s remarks, stressing that Zambia prefers dialogue over confrontation.
Call for Respectful Diplomatic Engagement
In conclusion, Zambia reaffirmed its openness to constructive engagement with all partners but emphasized that cooperation must be based on respect, transparency, and non-interference.
The statement was signed and issued by Hon. Mulambo Haimbe SC, MP Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.