ZAMBIA'S High Commissioner to Antigua and Barbuda on non residential basis Bob Samakai has implored the business community from the Caribbean region to consider investing in the various sectors of the Zambian economy whose potential still remains untapped.

According to statement issued by the Zambian High Commission in Canada Mr Samakai called for stronger economic ties with the island nation of Angtigua and Barbuda, which are known for their beautiful touristic sites.

He made the call when he presented his letters of credence to Antigua and Barbuda Governor-General Dame Louise Lake-Tack recently.

"We invite the business community of Antigua and Barbuda to come and invest in the mining, agriculture, tourism and infrastructure sectors in Zambia. Zambia is offering one of the best incentives to foreign investors and Antigua and Barbuda stands to benefit by investing in Zambia."

He expressed optimism that the two countries could exploit their longstanding warm relationship to encourage the economic and cultural cooperation between them.

Mr Samakai, who is a resident High Commissioner in Canada with extra-accreditation in nearby countries in the Caribbean region, explained that Zambia was endowed with abundant natural resources including minerals such as copper, cobalt, zinc, uranium and other precious metals.

Zambia and Antigua and Barbuda are Member States of the Commonwealth, the United Nations and the African, Caribbean, and Pacific Group of States (ACP).

He added: "Both countries must exploit the opportunities that exist in our two countries for the benefit of the two peoples."

Recalling the collaboration between Antigua and Barbuda and New York-based South-South News that bestowed the 2012 South-South Global Governance Leadership Award on President Michael Sata last September, High Commissioner Samakai said:

"We are grateful that the government of Antigua and Barbuda recognises His Excellency, Mr Michael Sata's contribution to the social and economic development of Zambia."