Zambia ,DRC hold talks over trade

By Hector Simfukwe

Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo have held a meeting in Lubumbashi in order to address the issues that led to the closure of  border points by the Zambian government.

Speaking during the meeting, Commerce Minister CHIPOKA MULENGA reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthen relations between the two countries.

Mr. MULENGA said Zambia decided to close the border points to safeguard human life and property.

He says the decision was taken in order to protect traders from both Zambia and DRC as they conduct their business.

Mr MULENGA expressed happiness with the commitment from the DRC government to provide truck drivers and other traders with security in the DRC.

Meanwhile, Mr MULENGA said the banning of foreign products is not the best way to protect industries in DRC.

He said if  DRC and Zambia promote fair trade the economies of the two countries will grow.

And Copperbelt Minister, ELISHA MATAMBO called for dialogue between the two countries.

He said it is through dialogue that the two countries will promote trade and produce results.

And, DRC Minister of External Trade, JULIEN PALUKU said DRC has taken the decision in order to protect local products from stiff competition .

He said the companies in DRC are not competitive because foreign products are cheaper than locally produced goods.

He said what is sad that products from Congo are rejected in other countries when his country has allowed products from other countries.

He said this decision is not just affecting Zambia but other countries .

Speaking at the same event Katanga Province Governor, JACQUES KATWE said it is good that both Presidents from Zambia and DRC want the problems affecting the two countries resolved .

The two countries are expected to announce the outcome of the meeting in a communique later this evening.

DRC has banned cement, bread from Zambia among others from entering that country.