Online Reporter
Tawanda Musarurwa
FRANCE has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s long-term economic vision, particularly through strategic interventions in key sectors such as agriculture.
This commitment was articulated by the Ambassador of France to Zimbabwe, Mr Paul-Bertrand Barets, during the French Embassy’s annual Bastille Day celebrations in Harare yesterday.
The Bastille Day event, which commemorates France’s National Day, is a celebration of the principles of liberty, equality and fraternity.
In his address, Ambassador Barets spoke about the robust and enduring relationship between France and Zimbabwe.
He noted that this partnership continues to flourish through collaborative efforts in research, development and trade.
Ambassador Barets highlighted the vital role of French research institutions like the French Agricultural Research Centre for International Development (Cirad), the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) and the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS).
These institutions are deeply invested in enhancing Zimbabwe’s exceptional wildlife and agricultural development.
He pointed out that France has maintained a strong presence in Zimbabwe, particularly through its companies, which have consistently operated in the country despite some challenges.
The ongoing engagement is a testament to France’s long-term commitment to Zimbabwe’s economic growth.
A significant focus of the Ambassador’s speech was France’s support for Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 and 2.
He announced the inauguration of a new research platform in Hwange, dedicated to biodiversity. This facility, established in close collaboration with local communities and with the approval of the Government, features a modern bio-molecular laboratory.
It is designed to enable French and Zimbabwean researchers to identify and prevent zoonotic disease outbreaks, thereby promoting public health.
“This initiative illustrates our willingness to align our co-operation efforts with the objectives of NDS2, particularly in promoting sustainable and safe agriculture as a critical component of Vision 2030,” said Ambassador Barets.
Further, he highlighted a recent partnership between Expertise France and ZimTrade aimed at promoting Zimbabwean honey in European markets.
The collaboration not only seeks to enhance Zimbabwe’s exports but also emphasises value addition and sustainability, which are crucial for long-term economic health.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Sheillah Chikomo, who was the guest of honour at the Bastille Day celebrations, commended France’s increasing support for Zimbabwe’s development goals.
She remarked on the resurgence in diplomatic and economic engagements between the two nations, highlighting French contributions to various sectors, including health, agriculture, education, renewable energy and cultural heritage.
Deputy Minister Chikomo said the presence of prominent French companies in Zimbabwe — approximately 30, including Total Energies, Saint-Gobain Construction Products and the Lesaffre Group — underscores France’s confidence in Zimbabwe’s future.
“We are committed to deepening these economic ties and enhancing the ease of doing business in line with our mantra, ‘Zimbabwe is open for business’,” she said.
The growing partnership between France and Zimbabwe represents a promising avenue for economic development and collaboration.
With strategic initiatives aimed at agriculture, research and trade, both nations stand to benefit from a strengthened relationship that aligns with Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 goals.
