Diplomats pledge to promote peace

Debra Matabvu-Zimpapers Senior Reporter

AMBASSADORS accredited to Zimbabwe have commended the Government for the cooperation and hospitality extended to diplomatic missions from various countries across the world, pledging to work closely with authorities to promote development and peace.

Speaking at yesterday’s New Year reception with heads of diplomatic missions and international organisations accredited to Zimbabwe that was hosted by President Mnangagwa in Harare, Rwandan Ambassador to Zimbabwe and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps, Ambassador James Musoni, said the conducive environment in the country has enhanced bilateral and multilateral relations.

“The diplomatic community deeply appreciates the cooperation and hospitality extended to our missions by the Government of Zimbabwe,” he said.

“The conducive environment for diplomatic engagement enhances our ability to strengthen bilateral and multilateral relations for mutual benefit.

“We affirm our commitment to working closely with your administration, sir, in promoting our shared aspirations of peace, development and prosperity.”

Ambassador Musoni also commended President Mnangagwa’s exemplary leadership during his tenure as SADC Chairperson.

The Dean further expressed the diplomatic community’s confidence that Zimbabwe will be elected to the United Nations Security Council non-permanent seat for the 2027-2028 term.

Speaking after the reception, Brazil’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Vilmar Rogeiro Coutinho, said Brazil will continue to enhance trade relations between the two countries.

“It is a very important opportunity to be with President Mnangagwa and to be able to share a few words with him,” he said. “I am very happy to say Zimbabwe and Brazil have very excellent bilateral relations, and we are fully supporting Zimbabwe’s candidacy for the UNSC seat as the two countries share almost the same view on almost every topic in international relations.”

In terms of trade, Ambassador Coutinho noted that agriculture remains the major area of cooperation, but efforts are underway to expand into industry and mining.

“Historically, our countries were not so close; however, we are working on changing this and improving especially in the areas of trade,” he said.

Uganda’s Deputy High Commissioner, Ambassador Kintu Nyago, described Zimbabwe as a key diplomatic player on the continent, making the reception of great importance.

“Zimbabwe is an important diplomatic actor on the African continent, a role that began with the liberation struggle in which Zimbabwe was highly involved,” he said.