Zambian President Leaves for ChinaZambian President Frederick Chiluba left Lusake late Thursday afternoon to attend the forthcoming China-Africa Cooperation Forum scheduled for October 10-12 in Beijing, China.The president's entourage include Minister of the State House Erick Silwamba, Foreign Minister Keli Walubita, Information Minister Newstead Zimba and some other high-ranking officials. In an interview with Xinhua several hours before his departure, Chiluba said the main purpose of his visit is to further enhance relations between Zambia and the People's Republic of China. He said the forthcoming China-Africa Cooperation Forum is an important event which he can not miss at all. Describing China as a real all-weather friend, Chiluba said he will encourage other African countries at the forum to see to the consistency of the friendship with their Chinese friends. Zambian Vice President Christon Tembo and many government ministers were at Lusaka International Airport to see Chiluba and his party off. Lin Songtian, charge d'affaires of the Chinese embassy to Zambia, was also at the airport to see the president off. Chiluba will meet Chinese leaders and visit six cities including Beijing, Shanghai and Qingdao during his 11-day China tour. |
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