By Cecilia Chiluba/Zambia/Lusaka
The 4th session of the Tanzania and Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security has opened, presenting an opportunity for the two neighbouring countries to cement their relations.
During the official opening of the Senior Officials Meeting this morning in Arusha, Tanzania, Zambia’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary, Dickson Matembo said both countries are working on many joint economic projects which have enhanced relations between them.
Mr. Matembo cited the Tanzania-Zambia Railways Authority (TAZARA), the Tanzania-Zambia Mafuta (TAZAMA) Pipelines Limited, the Tanzania-Zambia Power Interconnector and many other projects.
“The joint ventures symbolize the strong bonds existing between the two countries and they support cross border trade and regional integration,” he said.
And Tanzania’s Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Home Affairs, Ally Gugu stated that his country is ready to work with Zambia in all areas of cooperation.
“The 4th session of the Tanzania-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security presents a good opportunity for both countries to engage constructively on many issues affecting them,” Mr. Gugu stressed.
On Thursday, Ministers of Defence and Home Affairs from both countries are expected to join the 4th Session of the Tanzania-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security when it culminates into the Ministerial Session.
This is according to a statement issued by Ministry of Defence, Principal Public Relations Officer, Paul Shalala.
