“ENGAGEMENT OF INVESTMENT PARTNERS IS FOR ZAMBIA’S BENEFIT”
By Etambuyu Katota
Government says it’s engagement with international businesses and investment partners is meant to benefit the Zambians.
Chief Government Spokesperson CHUSHI KASANDA says by engaging international partners in the economic recovery programme, Government is promoting the interest of the country.
Ms. KASANDA who is also Information and Media Minister says government is working for the people of Zambia so that they can meet their aspirations and ambitions of a better and prosperous country.
She says first ever European Union – EU Zambia Economic Forum is one way to guarantee economic reconstruction through economic diplomacy in widening business opportunities.
Ms. KASANDA says investment from the EU companies in Zambia currently stands at one point 6 billion Euros covering sectors such as Energy, Construction, Engineering and Agriculture.
She says Government wants this to rise over 5 billion Euros as potential to increase is present.
Ms. KASANDA says the first-ever EU-Zambia Economic Forum which closes today, demonstrates Government’s commitment to accelerate efforts aimed at reconstructing the economy by increasing Zambia’s stake and stature at the global stage as a prime destination for business and investment.
She says the forum also provides an opportunity for Zambia to access the EU market for its exports. The forum is also a confirmation that Zambia is back and open for business.
Ms. KASANDA says the EU remains an important partner for Zambia with significant import and export volumes and would like this enhanced further for mutual benefit.
In a statement issued to ZNBC News in Lusaka, Ms. KASANDA said Government projects to increase copper production to 3 million tonnes per year and the forum provides an important platform for this realisation.
Ms. KASANDA said transparency, accountability, policy consistency and protection of private investment rights, stable political environment and intolerance to corruption, are at the core of Government’s economic recovery and reconstruction.
She said Government reaffirms its resolve to work with the private sector as the engine of economic growth.
