LUSAKA, Zambia, September 30, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- His Excellency, President Rupiah Banda, has today highlighted the excellent trade and investment opportunities offered by Zambia, urging Nigeria's business community to make Zambia its "first port of call" for business.

Speaking to the Zambia Nigeria Business Forum during his visit to Nigeria to celebrate the country's 50 years of independence, President Banda said, "Zambia feels extremely fortunate to have Nigeria as a partner in economic development. Our two countries have a great deal to offer each other for the mutual benefit of both.

"Nigeria's independence celebrations offer a perfect opportunity to showcase the immense investment and trade potential that Zambia has to offer. The business communities of our two nations have much to learn from, and share with, each other."

To reap the maximum wider benefit from his time in Nigeria, President Banda took a delegation of more than 50 leading Zambian businessmen and women with him, to spread the word about Zambia's business potential.

Drawing comparisons between the economic progress achieved by the two countries, President Banda commented: "I have followed with keen interest the impressive economic progress that Nigeria has achieved. I am proud that Zambia has also made significant economic progress, with growth driven by expansion in the mining, agriculture and tourism sectors."

President Banda went on to outline the benefits of Zambia's strategic location at the hub of eight neighbouring countries and discussed key investment opportunities in Zambia.

"As Nigeria celebrates its 50th independence anniversary let this be a turning point. I urge Nigerian businesses to expand - and to look to Zambia as a first port of call. There is, without doubt, room for our two countries to strengthen trade and investment ties," the President concluded.

SOURCE State House Lusaka, Republic of Zambia

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