President Banda Congratulates Tanzanian President

LUSAKA, Zambia, November 9, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- His Excellency, Mr. Rupiah Banda, President of the Republic of Zambia, on Friday conveyed a congratulatory message to his counterpart, His Excellency, Mr. Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete, President of the United Republic of Tanzania, for having won the recent presidential election in his country.

The President said the re-election of President Kikwete following the October 31st, 2010 elections, was a sure testimony of the confidence and trust that the people of Tanzania and Zanzibar have in his exemplary and wise leadership.

"I have no doubt that you will use your second term of office to steer your great country to further economic development and prosperity in accordance with the expectations of the majority of the Tanzanian people," President Banda said in his letter of congratulations to President Kikwete.

President Banda said he looks forward to working closely with President Kikwete to solidify further the excellent relations existing between Zambia and Tanzania for the benefit of the people of the two countries.

In addition, President Banda has extended his congratulatory message to the newly elected President of Zanzibar, His Excellency, DR. Ali Mohammed Shein. President Banda said the leadership qualities and passion for public service have helped Dr. Shein win the October 31st, 2010 elections and wished him the best during his tenure in office.

President Banda, who is also chairman of the International Conference of the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), was invited by the Tanzanian Government to join other African Heads of State at the inauguration of President Kikwete in Tanzania's capital, Dar Es Salaam on Saturday.

President Banda left for Tanzania on Saturday morning and returned after the ceremony. The President is also chairperson of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, which is responsible for conflict resolution in the region. Tanzania is a member of both ICGR and SADC.

SOURCE State House Lusaka, Republic of Zambia