N.Z.-Zambia link made

Press, 1 April 1985, Page 14

N.Z.-Zambia link made

PA Wellington New Zealand and Zambia have decided to establish formal diplomatic relations, the Prime Minister, Mr Lange, has said. Establishment of diplomatic relations with Zambia broadened the range, of New Zealand’s contacts with its African partners in the Commonwealth, Mr Lange said. “The Zambian Foreign Minister visited New Zealand in 1975 and now, 10 years later, I am looking forward to repaying that visit," he said. “Zambia plays an important role in southern African

affairs and formal diplomatic relations provide an official context within which our understanding of the Zambian Government’s views on these and other international issues can be enhanced. “The exchange provides an opportunity also to improve the understanding in Africa of New Zealand and New Zealand’s policies.” In New Zealand’s case, a representative at an existing post will be crossaccredited to Zambia, pending the establishment of a New Zealand post on the ground in east or southern Africa, Mr, Lange said.