Zambia marks 53rd independence anniversary

24 Octobre 2017

Lusaka, Zambia, October 24 (Infosplusgabon) - Zambian President Edgar Lungu on Tuesday led hundreds of Zambians and foreign dignitaries, including Botswana’s President Lt.-Gen. Seretse Khama Ian Khama, to commemorate Zambia’s 53rd Independence anniversary which falls on Tuesday.

President Lungu, in his speech, paid tribute to Zambia’s first President Kenneth Kaunda, saying that the founding presidents, Kaunda and Sir Seretse Khama of Botswana were not only close friend but also stewards of the struggle against colonial rule in the region.

President Lungu also commended the government of Botswana for its unwavering support to Zambia during her current tenure as chair of the United Nations group of landlocked developing countries.

Meanwhile, several Heads of State and Government have sent messages of congratulations to President Lungu and the people of Zambia on the occasion.

United States of America President Donald Trump, in his congratulatory message to President Lungu, said the United States looks forward to deepening the strong partnership between Zambia and the US in the years ahead, as the two countries work together on democratic governance, the rule of law, and economic prosperity for all Zambians.

“Best wishes to you and the people of Zambia on the 53rd anniversary of your independence. On behalf of the American people, l wish you and the Zambian people peace and prosperity,” President Trump said.

And Ethiopia’s President Dr. Mulatu Teshome expressed confidence that the close friendly relations that exist between Zambia and Ethiopia will continue to be further strengthened and developed for the mutual interest of the two peoples.

“On behalf of the people and Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and that of my own l would like to extend to your Excellency and through you, to the brotherly people and Government of the Republic of Zambia my warmest congratulations on the occasion marking the 53rd anniversary of your country’s Independence Day.”

South Africa’s President Jacob Zuma, in his message, reaffirmed his Government’s desire to strengthen the excellent bonds of friendship that exist between South Africa and Zambia.

“May l take this opportunity not only to wish Your Excellency’s good health, but also to reaffirm our desire to strengthen the excellent bonds of friendship that exist between our sister countries.”

President Kaunda and former president Rupiah Banda, vice president Inonge Wina, were among people who attended the celebrations in Lusaka.

FIN/INFOSPLUSGABON/UYH/GABON 2017

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