Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
French President Francoise Hollande has hailed Zambia for its efforts in maintaining peace and stability in Africa.
Speaking when Zambia’s Ambassador to France Humphrey Chibanda presented his letters of credence at the Elysee Palace on Monday, President Hollande cited Zambia’s role in restoring peace in the Central African Republic by sending peace keepers to that country.
Mr Hollande further acknowledged the strides Zambia is making in developing its economy and assured Ambassador Chibanda of France’s support in Zambia’s economic development.
President Hollande revealed that France is working towards balancing up relations between the Francophone and Anglophone countries in Africa and thus the renewed interest in countries such as Zambia.
Meanwhile Ambassador Chibanda in presenting his Letters of Credence recognised that France and Zambia, though separated by long distance, vast oceans and mass land have continued to enjoy warm and cordial long standing bilateral relations since Zambia attained independence 50 years ago.
Ambassador Chibanda said during his tour of duty in France he will continue to develop the already exiting bilateral relations to strengthen further the relations for the mutual benefit of the two countries.
He informed President Hollande that Zambia like France has remained one of the countries in Africa that is committed to good governance, upholding of democratic principles and respect for Human Rights.
He added that Zambia has continued to be a pioneer of dialogue in countries which have been faced with conflicts on the African continent.
Ambassadors Chibanda also informed President Hollande that the peace and stability and the good economic performance has resulted in massive foreign and local investment in the country.