Maravi

Levy hopes for stronger Zambia-Mexico relation

Levy hopes for stronger Zambia-Mexico relation
By Mutuna Chanda
Saturday May 03, 2008 [04:00]

PRESIDENT Levy Mwanawasa has said the relations between Zambia and Mexico have the potential to grow stronger. Receiving credentials from the Mexican Ambassador designate to Zambia Luis Cabrera at State House in Lusaka yesterday, President Mwanawasa cited the potential areas of strengthening as agriculture, hydroelectric energy, forestry, manufacturing and mining.

"It is our desire to open new avenues of interaction in these sectors to boost our cooperation," he said. President Mwanawasa noted Mexico's commitment to upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter.

"At the international level, Zambia recognises that Mexico is an ardent advocate of the peaceful resolution of international disputes and conflicts," President Mwanawasa said. "In this regard your country has contributed significantly to peace in central America...

We hail the positive role it plays in the work of the organization, particularly in the fields of peacekeeping, disarmament, development, human rights and the environment. It is our desire to work closely with you at the international fora to promote issues of common interest to our regions and continents."

He said Zambia and Mexico should use their common membership in the United Nations, Group of 77 and the Non Aligned Movement to further enhance their cooperation.

And Ambassador Cabrera said Mexico had always admired and respected the role that Zambia played in supporting southern African countries' independence, social and economic development and the promotion of peace.

"Zambia's valuable support is currently reflected and very much needed nowadays through your leadership as chairperson of the Southern African Development Community."

Ambassador Cabrera said President Felipe Calderon was especially interested in a stronger Mexican presence in Africa.

"To do so, we need to consolidate the foundations for the development of joint initiatives on a great variety of bilateral and international matters," said Ambassador Cabrera.

"Our bilateral relation is still young and we require promoting closer links of cooperation and exchange between our people, especially in the educational, cultural and social fields."

Labels: MEXICO, TRADE

posted by MrK @ 3:09 AM