The Rt Hon Justice Dr Patrick Matibini, SC, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly welcomed His Excellency Mr Sylvian Berger, Ambassador of the Republic of France to the Republic of Zambia and Special Representative to COMESA when he paid a courtesy call on Hon Mr Speaker on Thursday, 17th May, 2018, at Parliament Buildings.

His Excellency Berger expressed his excitement to work in Africa and was looking forward to learning the vast cultures Zambia has and also expressed that this was his first appointment to Africa. The Ambassador mentioned to Dr Matibini that he was happy that some Cabinet Ministers such as the Hon Joseph Malanji, MP, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon Dr Chitalu Chilufya, MP, Minister of Health, and Hon Margaret Mwanakatwe, MP, Minister of Finance were able to speak French, he further said that it was important for everyone to speak at least two or three languages due to globalisation as we all experience similar challenges.

In addition, the French Ambassador encouraged the creation of a Parliamentary Association Friendship Group as it would strengthen both Zambia and France diplomatic relations, and also encouraged the Speaker to visit the French Parliament.

The Hon Speaker in his welcoming remarks retaliated that Parliamentary diplomacy was of the essence as it was the core of representative democracy. He also encouraged the Ambassador that exchange of Parliamentary procedure was important and the exchange of culture and traditions through tourism.