Ndola — PRESIDENT Mwanawasa is today expected in Antananarivo, Madagascar for a three-day state visit.

Dr Mwanawasa, who would be accompanied by First Lady Maureen and Foreign Affairs Minister, Kabinga Pande, will arrive at D' Ivato International Airport in Antananarivo at 15: 30 local time (14:30 Zambian time).

President Mwanawasa will be met at the airport by host President Marc Ravalomanana and other senior government officials.

Zambia's High Commissioner to South Africa, Leslie Mbula, who is also accredited to Madagascar said that a busy schedule awaits President Mwanawasa who would

upon arrival, call on his Madagascar counterpart at the state Palace Ambohitsorohitra.

Later in the evening, President Mwanawasa who is Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) chairperson will receive an Honorific Distinction award from President Ravalomanana.

A state banquet will be hosted in honour of Dr Mwanawasa at the state palace at 19:00 hours local time. ZANIS