Zambia-Turkey trade not impressive-Envoy

By JOHN SAKALA
Zambia High Commissioner to Turkey Joseph Chilengi says trade volume between the two countries has not been impressive.

Dr Chilengi said it is important for the two countries to expeditiously conclude negotiations on the Avoidance of Double Taxation Agreement (ADTA), in order to enhance trade.

He was speaking at a reception to commemorate the 54^th Independence Anniversary in Ankara on Thursday.

The event was graced by Turkey’s Minister of Education, Professor Dr Ziya Selcuk

“It is gratifying to note that our brotherly countries are working on measures to improve people-to-people interaction and cultural exchange to enhance people to people diplomacy that will help to boost trade and investment, which stands at US$ 22 million as at 2017,” Dr Chilengi said.

Zambia’s Ambassador to Turkey, Dr Joseph Chilengi receives Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) Ambassador Marcel Mulumba at a reception to commemorate the 54th Independence Anniversary at Hilton Hotel Ankara on Thursday. Mr Mulumba is the Dean of the African Diplomatic Corps in Ankara- PICTURE COURTESY OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA. Photo credit: Zambian Embassy in Turkey

Zambia’s Ambassador to Turkey, Dr Joseph Chilengi introduces Zambia’s Honorary Consul in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Dr Yousef Alazizi (Left) to Turkey’s Minister of Education Professor Dr Ziya Selcuk (centre) during a reception to commemorate the 54th Independence Anniversary at Hilton Hotel Ankara on Thursday-PICTURE COURTESY OF THE EMBASSY OF THE REPUBLIC OF ZAMBIA. Photo credit: Zambian Embassy in Turkey

He also expressed optimism that the establishment of the Zambia-Turkey Business Council, which was launched in June 2018 in Lusaka, will help improve economic and trade relations between the two countries.

Dr Chilengi is happy that the reciprocal high- level visits between the two countries have opened up interaction and strengthen relations.

He also said Zambia offers a good investment climate which is competitive globally due to political stability.

He called upon more Turkish companies to take advantage of this enabling environment to invest in Zambia’s growth sectors and value addition industries.

Dr Chilengi also commended the Turkish Government for its contribution to the fight against international terrorism and related international crimes.

He pledged Zambia’s support to ensure to international peace and security.

Professor Selcuk was happy that relations between Zambia and Turkey are growing stronger as a result increased interaction between the leaders of the two countries.

“We are planning to establish a branch of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency in Zambia. Turkish Airlines will also start its first flights to Zambia soon, which will contribute greatly to our relations. Turkey maintains a strong presence in Africa.” Professor Selcuk said.

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