XAVIER MANCHISHI –

GOVERNMENT has completed the revision of the foreign policy, Foreign Affairs Minister Wylbur Simuusa has disclosed.
Addressing members of the diplomatic corps at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka yesterday, Mr Simuusa said the new foreign policy was now only waiting for Cabinet approval.
The minister said economic diplomacy would be the main component of the revised foreign policy.
“My Government shall pay special attention to enhancing economic cooperation by facilitating trade and attracting foreign investment.
“In doing so, Zambia shall endeavour to maximise her national gains in all fields of economic activity including agriculture, tourism mining, manufacturing and industry,” he said.
Mr Simuusa said Zambia would continue to pursue policies aimed at promoting democracy, good governance and the rule of law including the participation of her people in the management of national affairs.
He told the members of the diplomatic corps that President Michael Sata in his speech during the opening of the third session of the National Assembly set a target of attracting Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) of US$3 billion.
To this effect, Mr Simuusa said as at June 30th 2013, Government approved projects had hit $3.56 billion, well above the target.
The Foreign Affairs ministry is working in tandem with diplomatic missions abroad to market Zambia’s immense investment opportunities and provide an effective channel for attracting FDI.
He said Zambia had also engaged the diaspora to participate in the development of the country.
He said Government is finalising the diaspora policy as an effort towards creating synergies with national and continental disapora programmes.
Giving a vote thanks, Bostwana’s High Commissioner to Zambia Ditlhabi Oliphant said the interaction with the Zambia Government was encouraging and pledged the diplomatic community’s participation in the golden jubilee celebrations.