By Brenna Matendere
Next year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and China, solidifying the enduring friendship between the two nations.
On the afternoon of September 3, 2024, President Xi Jinping welcomed Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who was in China for the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) and on a state visit. The two leaders convened at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing.
President Xi emphasized that in recent years, guided by their mutual objectives, the two countries have deepened political trust and achieved significant results in cooperation, serving as a model for solidarity among developing nations.
“The two sides should uphold the spirit of friendship and establish a comprehensive ‘five-star ironclad’ cooperation framework focused on politics, economics, security, culture, and international collaboration. Together, we can build a high-level China-Zimbabwe community with a shared future,” he stated.
Xi highlighted the shared perspectives and strong mutual trust that form the foundation of China-Zimbabwe relations.
He reiterated China’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe in safeguarding its sovereignty and development interests, opposing external interference and illegal sanctions. China is eager to enhance exchanges on governance and continue robust mutual support.
China remains dedicated to aligning its development strategies with Zimbabwe’s goals, aiming to expand cooperation in investment, trade, infrastructure, energy, mining, clean energy, and the digital economy.
Xi noted that developing relations with African countries is a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy, supporting Africa’s quest for independent development and its emergence as a significant player in global affairs. FOCAC serves as a vital platform for enhancing unity and cooperation between China and Africa, championing international collaboration.
During his previous visit to China, Mnangagwa expressed admiration for the achievements made under President Xi’s leadership, citing visits to Hunan, Shenzhen, and Nanjing that inspired him greatly.
Mnangagwa extended gratitude to China for its invaluable support in Zimbabwe’s economic and social development, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. He noted that China’s assistance has not only benefited the Zimbabwean people but has also fostered a new era of friendship between the two nations.
The Zimbabwean president also affirmed his country’s readiness to exchange governance experiences with China and deepen cooperation in infrastructure, agriculture, minerals, and new energy sectors to advance Zimbabwe’s modernization.
Following their discussions, both leaders witnessed the signing of several bilateral cooperation agreements, including initiatives related to the Belt and Road, the Global Development Initiative, trade exchanges, and the export of avocados to China.
The two sides issued a Joint Statement on Deepening and Enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation, reaffirming their commitment to building a high-level China-Zimbabwe community with a shared future.
Before the talks, Xi hosted a welcoming ceremony for Mnangagwa at the North Hall of the Great Hall of the People.
After the talks, the two heads of state jointly witnessed the signing of a number of bilateral cooperation documents, including such areas related to Belt and Road cooperation, the Global Development Initiative, economic and trade exchanges and cooperation, avocado export to China, and news.
The two sides issued a Joint Statement Between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Zimbabwe on Deepening and Enhancing the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation and Building a High-Level China-Zimbabwe Community with a Shared Future.
Before the talks, Xi held a welcoming ceremony for Emmerson Mnangagwa at the North Hall of the Great Hall of the People.
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