DIPLOMATS accredited to Zambia have praised Government for its firm stance against corruption.

Dean of the diplomat corps Tuelonyana Oliphant said in Lusaka yesterday that the Zambian Government should continue fighting corruption and at the same time sustain economic development.

Ms Oliphant, who is Botswana High Commissioner to Zambia, said this during the opening of a seminar for diplomats accredited to Zambia.

She said corruption retarded development of any country but was impressed that Zambia had maintained a steadfast approach towards the fight against the scourge.

"We are happy to be attending this seminar where we are able to meet with Ministry of Foreign Affairs officials and Government department heads to interact on various issues that we encounter in the course of our duty.

"As diplomats accredited to Zambia, we wish to commend Government for its tireless and unwavering stance against corruption. Not only does corruption affect ordinary people but it retards development," she said.

She added that Zambia's commitment to safeguarding peace and the rule of law had earned the country a clean record on governance.

Foreign Affairs Minister Given Lubinda, at the same function, said it was vital to ensure Zambia maintained peaceful and cordial ties with the international community through a vibrant foreign policy.

Mr Lubinda said Zambia would review the foreign policy in order to advance the country's national interests.

"In this regard, my ministry is in the process of reviewing Zambia's foreign policy in a way that will extend our global reach and regional influence and protect the interests of the Zambian people in the broadest sense," Mr Lubinda said.

The revised foreign policy would aim to reflect core values of Zambians and provide a clear set of priorities.

Mr Lubinda said effective interaction between Zambia and her partners was important to ensure continued sound bilateral and multilateral relations with the international community.