Outgoing Japanese Ambassador to Zambia Kiyoshi Koinuma has thanked government for the positive relationship between the two countries during the time he has served in Zambia.
Mr. Koinuma paid a courtesy call on Foreign Affairs Minister Harry Kalaba at his office to inform him of his new appointment.
He also congratulated Mr. Kalaba on his re-appointment as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Mr. Koinuma assured Mr. Kalaba that Japan will continue to cement the bilateral relationships between the two countries and Africa as at large.
Mr. Konuma has been appointed by his government to serve in Vienna, Austria in the same capacity thus ending his three year stay in the country.
And Mr. Kalaba said he has learnt with sadness that Mr. Koinuma’s mission to serve in Zambia has come to an end and that he is leaving the country.
He said Mr. Koinuma worked tirelessly to cement the bilateral relationship between Zambia and Japan.
He added that Japan demonstrated its commitment to working with Zambia in various developmental projects.
Mr. Kalaba has however wished that amicable resolutions are found to settle the dispute in the South-China which has affected Japan as well.
He has assured Mr. Koinuma that he will work closely with anyone who will be sent to the Japanese mission in Zambia.
Mr. Kalaba further promised that President Lungu will soon visit Japan to fulfil his invitation to that country.
Meanwhile, Mr Kalaba has thanked President Lungu for re-appointing him as Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Addressing members of staff at the ministry of foreign affairs in Lusaka today, Mr Kalaba encouraged them to remain united and be productive in their work.
He added that all the staff in the various departments should ensure that they raise the Zambian flag high through hard work.
Arigato gozimasu!
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