HH strengthens ties with Catholic Church
By Sharon Siame
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says his Administration is a friend of the Catholic Church and will continue to work with the Church.
President HICHILEMA says Government would like to see a world that is peaceful and stable for development.
He said this when he met Apostolic Nuncio to Zambia Archbishop GIANLUCA PERICI who called on him at State House in Lusaka to deliver a message of peace, hope and forgiveness from His Holiness Pope Francis.
President HICHILEMA expressed gratitude for the message delivered and noted that the issue around debt restructuring is appreciated.
He said the Catholic Church supported Zambia’s debt restructuring process and that his Administration would like to replace debt with investment, trade and economic partnerships.
President HICHILEMA said this will help create jobs for youths and business opportunities.
He noted that the relationship between Zambia and the Vatican City has been excellent and that Government wants to continue its partnership with the Catholic Church as well as other churches.
President HICHILEMA said that it is the policy of Government to work with all religious groups.
And the Apostolic Nuncio said his visit to State House is a reflection of the good relations between the Catholic Church and Zambia.
He said his visit is meant to consolidate good relations and to deliver the message for the New Year from the Pope.
Archbishop PERICI said the Pope wishes peace for Zambia and for all people afflicted by wars.
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister MULAMBO HAIMBE said that the message from Pope Francis resonates well with Zambia’s principles and speaks to strengthening of relations with the Holy See.
(Image credit BBC)
