Maravi

Chinese delegation complains over ‘upside down’ flag

Chinese delegation complains over ‘upside down’ flag
By Staff Reporter
Sat 15 May 2010, 04:50 CAT

President Rupiah Banda (r) during the Chinese-Zambia meeting at the Royal Livingstone boardroom last Wednesday. Below, the correct position of the Chinese flag

THE Chinese delegation that held meetings in Livingstone with President Rupiah Banda on Wednesday complained to government officials over their flag which had been placed upside down.

According to officials from both the Zambian and Chinese delegation, the flag was placed upside down on the table but it could not be re-arranged after the concern was raised as journalists were already in the boardroom.

The officials, who sought anonymity, said the flag was only hung properly after the delegation moved from the boardroom to the sundeck for the signing of the four Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).

“We realised that the officials had hanged our flag next to your country flag on the table stand upside down. We quickly informed the Ambassador about it but we could not rearrange it as you guys the journalists and other officials were already in there and then the ministers moved in,” the source in the Chinese delegation said.

“We, however, later complained to State House officials and we found a better time to correct the mess at the signing ceremony.”

Prior to President Banda’s arrival in Livingstone, there were instructions that there should be no MMD cadres, journalists, and no red carpet was rolled out for both his arrival and departure.

Labels: CHINESE, INSULTS

posted by MrK @ 5:36 AM