Ambassador of Finland to Zambia, Ms Saana Halinen has said that a delegation of nine Finnish Members of Parliament (MPs) from the Committee on Finance is scheduled to visit Zambia, with the aim of exchanging best practices with their Zambian counterparts from the Planning and Budgeting Committee, focusing on enhancing partnership and improving oversight of government spending.
Speaking during a courtesy call on the Speaker of the National Assembly of Zambia, the Right Honourable Ms Nelly B.K Mutti, MP, FAPRA, on Monday, 26th February, 2024, at Parliament Buildings, Ms Halinen stated that the initiative is designed to ensure fiscal responsibility aligned with national development priorities.
Her Excellency stressed that the official visit is of great importance for both Members, owed to the mutual benefits that will arise, as they will engage in fruitful discussions and knowledge-sharing to strengthen their oversight mechanisms and promote transparency in financial governance, which will ultimately lead to more effective utilization of public resources for the benefit of citizens.
Ms Halinen further stated that the visit will signify a milestone in bilateral relations between Finland and Zambia, demonstrating the shared commitment to promoting good governance and economic development. She informed that the delegation will further engage with various stakeholders, including the Parliamentary Budget Office, to exchange insights and explore opportunities for collaboration.
The Right Honourable Nelly B. K Mutti, MP, FAPRA, extended her gratitude to Ms. Halinen for her role in facilitating this collaboration, stressing its importance in strengthening international partnerships in parliamentary oversight and governance.
She stated that the exchange of best practices between the respective committees on finance will undoubtedly contribute to enhancing transparency, accountability, and efficiency in managing public resources.
The Honourable Speaker expressed optimistic that the visit will not only deepen the bonds of friendship between the two nations but also yield tangible benefits in advancing shared objectives of good governance and inclusive development for all citizens.