Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambe Haimbe says   every trip that President Hakainde Hichilema undertakes has immeasurable outcomes which are in the best interests of the country.

And Mr Haimbe has clarified that the visit to the United Kingdom by President Hichilema   is not detrimental to the relations within the SADC region.

ZANIS reports that Mr Haimbe was responding to speculations raised by some political party leaders, regarding President Hichilema’s travel to the UK sidelining other regional activities such as the inauguration of South Africa’s President, Cyril Ramaphosa.

He added that, as SADC Troika Organ Chairperson, Zambia appointed an electoral observer mission to South Africa ahead of the elections who executed its mandate, and that a credible representative attended the inauguration of President Ramaphosa.

“I am of the strong view that the statement issued by our colleagues which suggested that there is a deterioration of relations, was nothing but mischievous and aimed at politicking on matters of diplomatic relations between ourselves, South Africa and other nations with which we cooperate,” Mr Haimbe said.  

He urged those who offer checks and balances to wait for ultimate outcomes of particular visits by the President before holding inconclusive discussions.

The Minister noted that Zambia continues to enjoy cordial relations within the SADC region.

“Zambia has enjoyed deep relations with the United Kingdom who are partners in cooperation development and areas of mutual interests.

And Mr Haimbe called on citizens not to accept such an approach to offering checks and balances that destroys the good relations that Zambia has with its partners.

He noted that there must be a limit to how political statements are made, which should be in the interest of the nation.

He reiterated that President Hichilema’s trip to the UK is beneficial to Zambians, as his engagements will be looking at areas of cooperation and of mutual benefits for both countries