Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mulambo Haimbe, has expressed gratitude to the South African government for the support rendered to the Zambian government, the bereaved family, and mourners following the passing of the Sixth President.
In a press statement, Mr. Haimbe conveyed a message of special thanks from President Hakainde Hichilema to Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, for the hospitality and solidarity shown during the mourning period.
The Minister commended the South African authorities, particularly the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO), for their unwavering support and close collaboration with their Zambian counterparts.
“Zambia will officially request that the late President Edgar Lungu be accorded full military honours by the Government of South Africa upon repatriation of his remains,” he said.
Mr. Haimbe underscored that Zambia and South Africa share long-standing relations, and that the ongoing cooperation during this period is a testament to the strength of the friendship between the two nations.
The Minister also separately conveyed condolences from President Hichilema to President Ramaphosa, in light of the recent devastating floods that led to the loss of lives and property in the Republic of South Africa.