World news story

British High Commissioner farewell call on Zambian Vice President

British High Commissioner James Thornton today paid farewell calls on the Vice President Inonge Wina and First President Kenneth Kaunda.

James Thornton and Kenneth Kaunda

James Thornton and Kenneth Kaunda

The High Commissioner discussed a range of issues with Mrs Wina, including the possible investment forum for Zambia in London later this year.

With Dr Kaunda, Mr Thornton noted Dr Kaunda’s role in creating a peaceful and unified Zambia after independence.

The High Commissioner went on to say that he had learnt about Dr Kaunda as a leading African leader and never believed he could meet him until he came to Zambia.

He said he had travelled to many parts of Zambia and takes with him to Bolivia, his next posting, good memories about the country.

Mr Thornton noted the personal links between the British Royal Family and Dr Kaunda. Manifestations of this included the visit by Princess Anne, the Princess Royal, to Dr Kaunda in hospital at the beginning of her visit to Zambia in September 2012; and the attendance by Dr Kaunda at a lunch given by Mr Thornton for Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex, during the latter’s visit to Zambia in October 2013.

Published 19 June 2015