On April 21st, Luo Shugang, Chinese minister of Culture and Tourism met with Charles Banda, Zambian minister of Tourism and Arts, as well as his delegation. Both sides conducted deep discussion on further promoting China-Zambia exchanges and cooperation in culture and tourism.
Luo Shugang firstly welcomed Banda’s visit to China. He noted that China and Zambia have witnessed a deep traditional friendship and sound relations since the establishment of diplomatic relations between two sides. Besides, the political trust is also deepened with an expanding and deep practical cooperation in all areas. During the Beijing Summit of China-Africa Cooperation Forum in September last year, President Xi Jinping and Zambian President Lungu reached extensive consensus on future China-Zambia ties and rolled out blueprint for cooperation in next phase through their fruitful meeting. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism is willing to work with Zambia to implement the consensus reached by two leaders according to the spirit of 2018 Beijing Summit of China-Africa Cooperation Forum, and proactively break new ground in cultural and tourism cooperation between two sides.
Charles Banda spoke highly of the unremitting efforts made by Chinese Ministry of Culture and Tourism for enhancing China-Zambia ties, and extended great thanks to the endeavor for China-Zambia Cultural Year. He stressed that Zambia is willing to take cultural year as a good opportunity to further strengthen exchanges and cooperation in culture and tourism between two sides, thus contributing to enhancing mutual trust.
At night, an opening gala of China-Zambia Cultural Year—the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zambia took place in Beijing Tianqiao Performing Art Center. Luo Shugang and Charles Banda attended the event and delivered speeches. Meanwhile, Luo announced the opening of China-Zambia Cultural Year. After the event, they greeted all the staff warmly and congratulated on their successful performances. Besides, Zambian Ambassador to China Winnie Natala Chibesakunda also attended the above-mentioned event.