KUALA LUMPUR, July 30 (Xinhuanet) -- Global security can be enhanced only through development in poor countries, particularly in Africa, Zambian Vice-President Nevers Mumba told the on-going Langkawi International Dialogue (LID) Friday.

    The 7th LID, held in Langkawi Island, northern Malaysia, is generally focusing on the issues of poverty, development and security in the developing countries.

    He said Africa's development becomes essential not only for theprincipal reason of their own people's dignity and humanity but also for the security of the whole world population.

    "Where there is poverty, there is vulnerability and unwilling participation in global security," he said.

    He said many African nations have little to do with international conflicts and insecurity that characterized global hazards today.

    "Yet, because we are poor, we are drawn into the conflict zone.I cannot fail to mention the hundreds of my fellow Africans killedin terrorist attacks on US embassies in Tanzania and Kenya," he added.

    In another development, Namibian President Sam Nujoma and South African Vice-President Jacob G. Zuma called on Malaysian Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi Friday on the sidelines of the LID which entered its second day.

    Malaysian Foreign Minister Syed Hamid Albar told reporters thatNujoma and Zuma are comfortable with the Malaysian efforts in promoting economic development and growth in their countries.

    "They felt that Malaysia has managed to promote a 'win-win' situation when investing in their countries by creating job opportunities for the locals," he said.

    He said Nujoma has requested Malaysia's participation in its mining industry while Zuma is seeking Malaysia's help in developing housing projects for the lower income group on a joint-venture basis.

    The partnership dialogue concept was pioneered by Malaysia whenit hosted the inaugural LID in 1995. It has subsequently spawned similar events in the form of the Southern Africa International Dialogue and the Eastern Africa International Dialogue.

    Several heads of state or government from Africa as well as 700participants from 33 countries are attending the dialogue. Enditem