Vice President Mutale Nalumango says government is in a hurry to stimulate a fast growing economy and create jobs for Zambians.
Mrs. Nalumango said government is determined to fight poverty through job creation.
Speaking in Lusaka last night during a gala dinner which marked the end of the European Union (EU)-Zambia Economic Forum, the Vice President said diversification and job creation are essential in building resilience and sustainable development.
Mrs. Nalumango described the forum as a true mark of friendship between Zambia and EU saying it created a rare platform for business networking.
She reiterated that Zambia is open to joint business ventures for mutual benefit with the EU.
“The striking diversity of our markets and the possibilities for partnerships offered by our overlapping networks were given due prominence at this forum. My hope is that many trade and investment opportunities, joint ventures and mutual and beneficial enterprises will continue to flow from introductions made and allowed to be created with our business communities gathered here in Lusaka,” she said.
And Zambia Chamber of Mines President, Godwin Beene, projected that 150,000 skills will be created over the next decade to achieve government’s target of producing three million tonnes of copper.
Dr. Beene, who is also First Quantum Minerals (FQM) Specialist in Government Relations, said the mining firm will endeavor to support Zambia’s resolve to grow the economy.
He also called for further enhancement of local manufacturing.
“We need great effort from infrastructure development which must not be left with the mining industry alone and in particular First Quantum to do. We are anxious to see how you will run with us in promoting local manufacturing,” Dr. Beene said.
And EU Ambassador to Zambia and COMESA, Jacek Jankowski, described Zambia as a very unique country as was demonstrated during the transition of power in August last year after the general elections.
Mr. Jankowski said there is need for Zambia’s economy to continue growing.