MINISTER of Defence Ambrose Lufuma says government remains committed to ensuring peace and security prevails between Zambia and Malawi in a bid to accelerate economic development in the two countries.
Mr Lufuma has since implored both Zambia and Malawi defense and security wings to remain vigilant to combat emerging vices such as terrorism and smuggling among others that are posing a threat to the two countries.
He said this when he officially closed the 19th session of the Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and security (JPC) meeting between Zambia and Malawi, in a speech read on his behalf by Minister of Education, Douglas Siakalima.
ZANIS Mr Lufuma expressed confidence that tangible solutions will be explored to stamp out common threats that the two countries are faced with, especially border violations, human trafficking and other security challenges.
“I therefore, implore you to remain dedicated to duty by ensuring that peace and stability continues to prevail in the two nations,” he said.
He called for speedy implementation of the resolutions that the JPC has come up with.
Malawi Minister of Defence, Harry Mkandawire observed that peace and stability are the catalyst for economic development of the two countries and must be harnessed.
Mr Mkandawire reaffirmed the important role that the JPC plays in exploring tangible solutions to curb the security challenges the two countries have been facing.
“Let me state here that there cannot be any meaningful development in the two countries without peace and stability, therefore, this collaboration will continue to explore workable solutions to the threats affecting the two sister countries,” he said.
He has since commended Government through President Hakainde Hichilema for the immense contributions to Malawi, especially during the funeral of late former Malawian Vice-President, Saulos Chilima who died in an accident earlier this year.
Meanwhile, in a Press Release to mark the end of the JPC which opened on Monday in Chilanga, the Commission noted that Zambia and Malawi are grappling with the adverse effects of climate change such as the drought situation.
The Commission stated that the effects of the drought crisis has negatively impacted the Energy, Agriculture and water sectors among others and that urgent resilient solutions must be found.
The Commission also commended the two countries for sustained participation in regional peace efforts, including in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) under the auspices of SADC mission to DRC (SAMIDRC).
The five-day JPC has since closed in Chilanga District, with the Malawian delegation, led by that country’s Defence Minister, Harry Mkandawire expressing gratitude to the Zambian Government for the hospitable atmosphere rendered to them during their stay in Zambia.
