Tokyo, 29th July 2023—His Excellency Dr. Tobias Mulimbika presented his Letters of Credence to His Majesty Hironomiya Naruhito, the Emperor of Japan, formally accrediting him as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Zambia to Japan.
During the ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, His Majesty Naruhito called for further strengthening of the longstanding and cordial bilateral relations between Zambia and Japan.
The Emperor noted that the two countries had continued to work together through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) to improve infrastructure on the Copperbelt Province and contribute to strengthening Zambia’s healthcare delivery.
Emperor Naruhito noted that his parents once visited Zambia and shared fond memories of the country.
The Emperor congratulated Dr. Mulimbika on his appointment as Zambia’s Ambassador to Japan and wished him well during his tour of duty.
And Dr. Mulimbika stated that President Hichilema remains keen to foster the strong relations between Zambia and Japan for mutual benefit. The Ambassador pledged to work tirelessly to promote the bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation.
The ceremony was witnessed by Mr. Watanabe Hiromichi, Minister for reconstruction of Japan and in Charge of Comprehensive Policy Coordination for Revival from the Nuclear Accident at Fukushima.
In his remarks after the ceremony, Dr. Mulimbika explained that economic diplomacy is key to strengthening bilateral relations between Zambia and Japan, as well as creating opportunities for joint trade and investment.
Dr. Mulimbika commended the Japanese government for the support rendered to Zambia through the JICA and the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) umbrella to the various sectors of the economy.
Issued by Faith Nabeene Chilube
First Secretary Press and Public Relations