Government says Japan is one of the country’s key cooperative partners that has contributed to the country’s growth in various areas of the economy.

Minister of Water, Development and Sanitation, Collins Nzovu, says given the success of President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent visit to Japan, the two countries will continue to work together on road infrastructure to actualise the targets discussed.

Mr Nzovu was speaking in Lusaka last evening when he graced the Japanese National Day reception held at the Ambassador’s residence in Kabulonga in honour of Emperor Naruhito’s 65th birthday which fell on February 23.

The Minister also took advantage of the event and called on all stakeholders at various levels to come on board and work with the government by offering expertise as well as financial assistance in line with the on-going cleaning up of the devastating contamination of the Kafue River.

Japanese Ambassador to Zambia, Takeuchi Kazuyuki, highlighted that President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent visit to Japan signifies the beginning of a new phase of the two countries’ bilateral relations.

Mr Kazuyuki said his country will endeavour to continue building strong cooperative relations with Zambia, noting that Zambia and Japan are partner’s that share the same values.

“This year, we will continue our cooperation in critical sectors, including irrigation development for small-scale farmers, smart agriculture, infrastructure development in refugee settlements, and mining supply chain support, in collaboration with international organisations,” he said.

Mr Kazuyuki explained that this will be done through the two country’s bilateral policy dialogue, as earlier announced during President Hichilema’s visit to Japan. 

“As Ambassador to this country, I am fully committed to further strengthen our bilateral relations,” he said.