And Mr Banda has assured management at Chambeshi metals that their investments were safe under the leadership of President Levy Mwanawasa.
Mr. Banda who is on a fact finding mission on the operations of the Mining Companies on the Copperbelt said the construction of the smelter in Zambia was an honour for the Zambian government as it would steer economic growth through job creation. The Vice President toured Chambeshi Metals and NFC Mining Company which is also located in Chambeshi.
At NFC Mr. Banda described the construction of the smelter as an impressive piece of art and commended the Chinese investors for pumping in more resources in the mine through the introduction of modern mining methods and equipment.
He said despite the problems that the Zambian government faced from some Chinese investors, it was gratifying to note that things had now changed for the better.
At Chambeshi metals Mr. Banda said government would support Investment programmes whenever called upon.
He appealed to management to work in harmony with other senior government officials to ensure that there was development in the area. He also hailed Chambeshi metals for their contribution towards the fight against HIV/AIDS and malaria.
Speaking earlier at the same function, Non Ferrous Mining chairman Zou Qiano said once completed, the company would produce 130 metric tonnes of refined Copper.
Mr Qiano said the smelter which will be completed next year would create employment for a number of Zambians who would be trained by Chinese experts on how to operate the new inventions at the plant.
He added that the company has already started clearing a 65 hector piece of land in Chambeshi. He said the project was by any standard the best so far in the region and assured government that this would be the number one project in Zambia.
Chambeshi Metals managing director Derrick Websock said the mining company would ensure that it does not pollute the water and air from the mining discharge. ' ZANIS.
