Ambassador Mizuuchi congratulates President-elect Mr. Hakainde Hichilema

          Ambassador of Japan to the Republic of Zambia, H.E. Mr. MIZUUCHI Ryuta extended congratulations to H.E. Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President-elect of the Republic of Zambia, upon his victory of the Presidential and General elections held on 12th August, 2021, as he made a courtesy visit to the future Head of State of Zambia this morning.

          Ambassador Mizuuchi reiterated Japan’s firm support for Zambia’s holding free, fair and credible elections, and characterized the result of the elections as not only the victory of Mr.Hichilema’s but also that of the democracy. The Ambassador assured Mr. Hichilema Japan’s continued support for the new Government which will benefit the people of Zambia through the work of the administration.

          The Ambassador and the President-elect talked about a wide range of topics of mutual interest including the state of economy, social issues and education for young people, as well as the ways to promote bilateral relations. On the friendly relationship between Japan and Zambia, Ambassador Mizuuchi recalled that the bonds of friendship between the two countries started with the Tokyo Olympics 1964 when Zambia gained independence and is being further enhanced through Zambia’s participation in the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics 2020. This year marks also the 440th anniversary of the Japan-African exchanges, he said.

          While expressing his hope to work closely together with the President-elect, Ambassador Mizuuchi conveyed his best wishes to the new President’s successful leadership and good health.