Online Reporter
Kuda Bwititi
Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE elevated strategic partnership between Zimbabwe and China must be anchored on deep cultural dialogue, Chinese Ambassador Zhou Ding said yesterday.
Speaking as the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe hosted the virtual launch of the “Global Linking of Dunhuang Culture – Zimbabwe Session”, Ambassador Zhou celebrated the historical and present relations between the two nations.
He said despite the vast geographical distance, the relationship between China and Zimbabwe is rooted in centuries-old trade networks.
“Though thousands of miles apart, China and Zimbabwe share common aspirations and uphold a profound respect for cultural diversity,” Ambassador Zhou said.
“History bears witness that the Great Zimbabwe was an integral part of the ancient Indian Ocean trade network that linked East Africa with China. Chinese porcelain unearthed from the Great Zimbabwe Monument stands as enduring and tangible testimony to our long-standing friendship.”
Ambassador Zhou noted that Dunhuang epitomises the spirit of “exchange and mutual learning,” a philosophy that continues to define modern bilateral relations.
“From ancient maritime trade to modern-day China-Africa cooperation, China and Zimbabwe have always stood together as trusted partners, bonded by mutual trust, mutual benefit and mutual learning,” he said.
The Ambassador placed special emphasis on a groundbreaking economic policy that took effect on May 1, and is set to reshape trade fundamentally.
