By NAKUBIANA SHABONGO –

THE Government says it is committed to strengthening the longstanding warm and cordial relations with the Arab Republic of Egypt.

Local Government and Housing Deputy Minister, Nicholas Banda said the Zambian Government looked forward to enhancing interactions with Egypt at multilateral level through continuous consultation and cooperation in order to address global issues.

“We are happy to note that over the years, these relations have been translated into increased cooperation in various fields of mutual interest to our two countries, making Egypt a very important partner and a friend of Zambia,” Mr Banda said.

The deputy minister was speaking at the reception to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Egyptian revolution in Lusaka on Thursday.

Mr Banda said Zambia acknowledged the relenting efforts and contributions Egypt had made over the years towards the attainment of peace, security and reconciliation in Africa and the Middle East.

“Despite the many challenges Egypt has faced in the recent years, Zambia has taken note of the significant and concrete political developments that have been made in its democratic transition and political harmony,” Mr Banda said.

“I, therefore, wish to take this opportunity to commend the government and the Egyptians for successfully holding presidential and parliamentary elections and for being readmitted into the African Union family.”

Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia, Ragai Nasr said his country and Zambia played a critical role and the two countries took responsibility for bringing peace and maintaining stability in Africa.

“The Zambian culture has been characterised by tolerance and non-violence. The relationship between the Egyptian and Zambian people dates back to Nasser and Kaunda, which has been unique and unbreakable,” Mr Nasr said.

He said his country was keen to cooperate with all peace-loving nations to build a unified planet by extending hands to the whole world with peace and security.

Mr Nasr said the exponential growth in bilateral trade volume and cooperation of the two countries would fulfill the COMESA strategy for regional integration.

“Egyptian companies working in Zambia are an example of success stories in the fields of construction, power and Information Technologies,” Mr Nasr said. “These contribute to the national efforts for sustainable development in the country.”