THE Economics Association of Zambia (EAZ) and Private Sector Development Association (PSDA) have hailed President Rupiah Banda for opening up bilateral relations with Turkey, a decision they say will bear positive results for the country’s economy.
EAZ president, Mwilola Imakando said in Lusaka yesterday that by establishing strong bilateral ties, Zambia would have increased investment opportunities.
“The country always benefits from useful bilateral relations. The little we know about Turkey is that that is a progressive country,” Dr Imakando said.
He said the increased trade opportunities arising from the trade relations with Turkey would increase competition, hence making Zambian companies more efficient.
Dr Imakando said President Banda was showing political will from the highest office to create an enabling environment to enhance investment in the country.
President Banda ended his three-day State visit to Turkey on Thursday where he held meetings with government officials and wooed some key investors, including Turkish Airlines that would soon launch a flight to Lusaka.
Mr Banda said Turkey was a strategic country as it was one of the emerging markets rated among the top 15 in the world and the sixth largest in Europe.
The focus of the visit was to capitalise on the warm relations between the two countries to establish conditions for development of economic ties through bilateral cooperation and the promotion of trade and investment.
A bilateral agreement on air services was signed alongside two memoranda of understanding for cooperation in foreign service training and on political consultation between the two governments.
The president also officiated at the first Turkey-Zambia Trade and Investment Forum in Istanbul at which 11 Zambian business executives were present.
The forum resulted in establishment of business contacts. He said the bilateral relations would also boost Zambia’s tourism sector.
PSDA chairperson, Yusuf Dodia said the relations between the two countries would link Zambia with the Middle East and Europe.
He said trade relations with Turkey would help Zambia become a regional air travel hub. Mr Dodia said through these relations, Zambian businesses could export to Turkey.
[Times of Zambia]
Pizza business community so you say.
More Kebab and Turkish bread Shops on cairo…well done RnB
Zambia needs a President who can address national issues on the ground. Maybe Mr Banda should be a minister for “wooed some key investors”! I am sure he will do better at that!!
#3 smoothie
Well said mate.