Canada says it is keen to attract more Canadian investors to Zambia, particularly in the mining and renewable energy sectors, to complement local businesses and support the country’s development agenda. Canadian High Commissioner to Zambia, Corry Gaal, says her country is looking…

Canada says it is keen to attract more Canadian investors to Zambia, particularly in the mining and renewable energy sectors, to complement local businesses and support the country’s development agenda.

Canadian High Commissioner to Zambia, Corry Gaal, says her country is looking at strengthening economic cooperation with Zambia by encouraging Canadian investors to partner with Zambian businesses.

Ms Gaal said this in an interview with the media on the sidelines of the official opening of the First Session of the 14th National Assembly by President Hakainde Hichilema in Lusaka today.

She said Canada’s newly opened High Commission in Zambia would help strengthen bilateral relations and promote investment opportunities between the two countries.

Ms Gaal, who is the first Resident Canadian High Commissioner to Zambia in a period of 15 years, disclosed that Canada was already a major foreign investor in the country, particularly through its involvement in two named major mines.

She welcomed President Hichilema’s speech, noting that it demonstrated the government’s commitment to strengthening private sector investment and diversifying the Zambian economy.

The Envoy also commended the President’s emphasis on improving living standards, education and tertiary education, including the development of university systems.

She, however, called for increased representation of women in Parliament and greater participation of women in the economy.

Meanwhile, nominated Member of Parliament, Noel Nkhoma, has described President Hichilema’s address as clear and eloquent, saying it reaffirmed the Head of State’s commitment to the Grow Zambia Agenda.

Mr Nkhoma said the President had emphasised the need for Zambians to focus on wealth creation and economic growth as a means of reducing poverty.