Government says it is ready to implement the Zambia–Switzerland Bilateral Agreement of Cooperation under the carbon market, which will deliver climate benefits while supporting sustainable development for the people.

Minister of Green Economy and Environment Mike Mposha, says the agreement marks a significant milestone in Zambia’s growing role in international climate action and sustainable development.

ZANIS reports that Mr Mposha said this when he officiated at the inauguration of the Zambia–Switzerland Cooperation on Climate Change under the Carbon Market in Lusaka today.

“This agreement demonstrates Zambia’s commitment to moving swiftly from negotiations to implementation of carbon market projects that support climate action and sustainable development,” he said.

Mr Mposha noted that the partnership opens opportunities for both Zambia and Switzerland to meet their climate targets while safeguarding environmental integrity and promoting sustainable development.

“This agreement is not just about climate mitigation; it is also a development opportunity that will support high-quality projects, create jobs, strengthen community resilience, and advance national sustainability priorities,” he said.

Mr Mposha further stated that Zambia has taken deliberate steps to enhance its readiness for effective participation in international carbon markets by establishing strong governance and institutional frameworks, clear approval processes, and targeted capacity building.

He highlighted the enactment of the Green Economy and Climate Change Act No. 18 of 2024 as a key milestone in providing a legal foundation for carbon markets, mitigation and adaptation efforts.

To operationalise the Act, Mr Mposha said the Government developed the Green Economy and Climate Change (Carbon Market) Regulations of 2025, aimed at improving transparency, predictability, and investor confidence.

He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to the partnership, stating that the country remains a trustworthy and dedicated partner in advancing carbon market cooperation.

And Switzerland ambassador to Zambia, Malawi, and Zimbabwe, Stéphane Rey says the launch of the implementing agreement to the Paris Agreement between Switzerland and Zambia marks a major step in strengthening bilateral climate cooperation.

Mr Rey reaffirmed Switzerland’s commitment to working closely with Zambia to translate global climate ambition into concrete action that benefits communities, creates jobs and supports sustainable development.

He said the cooperation stands as a model of trust, partnership, and people centred climate action.