Zambia: Improve Communication Skills, Levy Urges Chinese
The Times of Zambia (Ndola), 28 January 2008
President Mwanawasa has implored Chinese investors in Zambia to improve their communication skills in order to avoid misunderstandings with the local people.
Dr Mwanawasa said Chinese investors in the country were contributing significantly to the country's economy but that they should work harder in the area of communication.
He said the local people, especially in industry and other work environments, were prone to misunderstanding the Chinese because of poor communication.
Dr Mwanawasa said this during the commemoration of the Chinese Lunar New Year on Saturday evening.
The Chinese Lunar, also known as the Spring Festival, is celebrated in most countries where Chinese people are found.
The President said this in a speech read on his behalf by Home Affairs Minister, Ronnie Shikapwasha.
Dr Mwanawasa emphasised that good communication was cardinal in every environment because in its absence, misunderstandings were bound to occur.
The President was particularly impressed with the works done by most construction companies owned by Chinese investors.
He said the Chinese investors in the sector had proved to be competitive in their pricing, while maintaining good quality.
Since China stormed into a leading position on the world economic scene, Dr Mwanawasa said closer relations between the two countries had led to increased inflows of investment from that country.
As a result of the increased inflows, the Chambishi multi facility economic zone was implemented.
Soon, the Lusaka multi facility economic zone would follow.
The President said the good relationship between the two countries had now been extended beyond political understanding to economic relationship.
The Chinese government facilitated construction of TAZARA and many trunk roads such as the Lusaka-Mongu and Tuta road to Mansa.
And Chinese ambassador to Zambia, Li Qiangmin, urged Chinese investors in Zambia to obey local laws and respect the local custom.
When in Zambia, Mr Li said, Chinese investors should strictly adhere to the laws and respect the citizenry.
He further urged them to familiarise themselves with the local custom.
He added that he was happy that most Cabinet ministers and Zambians made an effort to attend the celebrations.
Mr Li said in 2007, China recorded remarkable achievements in social and economic development.
China's GDP reached US$3.4252 trillion from US$2.6269 trillion in 2006.
The country's import and export hit US$2.17 trillion, making it the third largest trading nation in the world.
As a result of the improving economy, Mr Li said, the living standard for most Chinese people had improved.
