Top news items in major Zambian media outlets

LUSAKA, Dec. 8 (Xinhua) -- The following are news highlights in Zambia's major media outlets on Friday.

-- The Zambian government said it would work with the Finnish government to explore areas of economic cooperation for mutual benefit.

Minister of Foreign Affairs Given Lubinda said during the commemoration of Finland's 100th Independence Day celebrations that the two countries share common values and principles in building their nations through joint efforts based on transparency and democratic governance. (Zambia Daily Mail)

-- Zambia is among countries named in a World Health Organization (WHO) report as a consumer of fake medicines.

The WHO global surveillance and monitoring system for sub-standard and falsified medical products report says that 10 percent of the low and middle-income countries consumed drugs that were below standard, or falsely labeled. (Times of Zambia)

-- The Zambian government has warned foreign contractors abrogating a contractual obligation to offer 20 percent of their business to local firms to ensure that was respected.

Andrew Chellah, Special Assistant to the President for Project Implementation and Monitoring, said the government was disappointed that some foreign contractors were not abiding by the law and warned any such foreign firms of stiff punishment. (Daily Nation)

-- Zambia is expected to have a new land policy before the end of this year, a senior government official has said.

Minister of Lands Jean Kapata said the government has already done wide consultations and that the new policy will be unveiled before the end of the year. (The Mast) Enditem