Zambia needs peace for economic transformation - Lubinda
IT will be hard for Zambia to attain socio-economic transformation and development in the absence of peace, says Justice Minister Given Lubinda
Mr Lubinda said there was need for Zambians to safeguard peace the country has been enjoying since independence in order for development to flourish.
Mr Lubinda said this on Thursday when he officiated at the commemoration of the Rwanda 24th Genocide anniversary was hosted by Rwanda High Commission in Lusaka.
He also said Zambia is ready to learn from Rwanda on how she has managed to transform her economy despite the genocide the country experienced.
“I must note with admiration that Rwanda's socioeconomic transformation and development continue to inspire us and is a source of pride for the African continent, if not the developing world,
“We therefore, applaud your tenacity, resilience and resolve in building a better future for Rwanda in which all citizens are equal," he said.
Mr Lubinda reaffirmed government's commitment to further consolidate the relations Zambia shares with Rwanda in an effort to address the needs and aspirations of the two peoples.
"I wish to reaffirm Zambia's commitment to stand side by side with our dear brothers and sisters of Rwanda and the international community, in our resolve to prevent and combat genocide ideologies, mass atrocities, hate crimes on the African continent and throughout the world," said Mr Lubinda.
And Rwanda High Commissioner to Zambia, Monique Mukaruliza said bilateral relations between Zambia and Rwanda are impressively on a growth trajectory.
"Bilaterally, I am happy to note that following the opening of Rwanda High Commission in June 2015 in Lusaka, interactions and multi-sectorial cooperation between both countries and peoples have grown considerably," said Ms Mukaruliza.