GOVERNMENT has said the Egyptian revolution is a significant event in history because it inspired Africans to rid themselves of the colonial rule and march to freedom.

And Government has commended Egypt for the role it has played in the Middle East particularly in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

Speaking in Lusaka yesterday when he officiated at a reception marking the 56th anniversary of the revolution of the Arab Republic of Egypt, Community Development and Social Services Minister Michael Kaingu said the revolt had an affirmative and salutary effect across the continent.

"On account of this inspirational and historical event, I once again extend our sincere congratulations to you, our Egyptian brothers and sisters on this revolutionary occasion," he said.

Mr Kaingu said government acknowledges the cordial and cooperative relations that exist between the two countries.

He reaffirmed Government's commitment to strengthening relations between the two countries for the mutual benefit of the two nations.

"Our commitment is consolidated by the knowledge and assurance that the Egyptian government is also keen to partner with us in our country's quest to fight poverty, to improve the living standards of our people and steer the nation to prosperity," he said.

He said the two countries demonstrated their common desire to expand their cooperation last month by holding fruitful meetings within the framework of the Joint Permanent Commission of cooperation and by signing a number of agreements.

The minister said the Government was now looking forward to the speedy implementation of the agreements, as they would help solidify the existing bonds of friendship between the two countries.

Egyptian Ambassador to Zambia Salah Abdel-Sadek said the relations between the two countries were growing stronger as evidenced by the rising Egyptian investments in Zambia. "We believe that more efforts could be exerted to achieve economic integration for the whole continent under one common market," he said.

He said Egypt was still committed to continuing its efforts to achieve peace in the Middle East.

Zambia's former presidents Kenneth Kaunda and Frederick Chiluba attended the commemoration.