President David Granger’s address at the accreditation of the High Commissioner of Zambia to Guyana

Excellency,

I am pleased to accept the Letters Credence accrediting you as Non-resident High Commissioner of the Republic of Zambia to the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.  I congratulate you on your appointment and I welcome you to Guyana.

I ask that convey to His Excellency President Edgar Lungu my best wishes for his personal well-being and the prosperity of the people of Zambia.

Guyana and Zambia have enjoyed excellent relations since the establishment of formal diplomatic ties on 11th February 1971. Relations, between our two states, have been founded on mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, mutual non- interference in each other’s internal affairs, cooperation for mutual benefit, respect for treaties and international law and the maintenance of international peace and security.

These relations were cemented by the close personal friendship between Guyana’s first Prime Minister Forbes Burnham and Zambia’s first President Dr.  Kenneth Kaunda, both passionate advocates of the African Liberation. President’s Kaunda’s visit to Guyana in 1975 helped to deepen relations between our two states.

Guyana is moving towards the establishment of a ‘green state’. The development of the ‘green state’ will place emphasis on the protection of our environment, the preservation of our biodiversity, the promotion of renewable energy and the adoption of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation.

Guyana is keen to learn from its experience in promoting ‘green’ jobs. Your appointment will create the opportunity for both our nations to exchange good practices and experiences in ‘green’ development.

I look forward to improved relations between our two states during your tenure as High Commissioner of Zambia to Guyana. I pledge the support of my Government in the discharge of your duties.

I thank you.