Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
FRANCE is broadening its economic focus to include all of Africa among them Zimbabwe, not just French-speaking nations, French Ambassador Paul-Bertrand Barets, said yesterday.
The shift aims to enhance economic cooperation with English-speaking countries and strengthen ties across the continent.
Ambassador Barets yesterday paid a courtesy call on Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira.
A major highlight of his visit was the announcement of the upcoming Africa-France Summit, set for May 2026 in Nairobi.
The summit, “Forward Africa”, will be significant as it marks the first time it has hosted in a non-French-speaking African country.
In the meeting, Ambassador Barets and Prof Murwira discussed ways to bolster diplomatic and economic relations between France and Zimbabwe.
The Ambassador noted the enduring presence of major French companies in Zimbabwe, which underscores their long-term commitment to the country.
“France has a keen interest in Africa and is expanding its focus beyond just French-speaking countries to include the entire continent,” Ambassador Barets said.
“We are organising this Africa-France Summit in Nairobi in May, which will be a historic first for a non-French-speaking nation.”
Ambassador Berets emphasised the importance of collaboration, sharing his experiences from last year when he led a delegation of French companies to Zimbabwe.
He expressed admiration for the skills of the Zimbabwean workforce. “French firms were very interested and impressed by the level of skills of the people they met,” he said.
Looking to the future, Ambassador Barets expressed optimism about upgrading bilateral relations, saying he believes there was much “we can accomplish together”.
He also highlighted opportunities for Zimbabwean businesses. There are no quotas or duty limitations when engaging with the European union and France.
“This is a crucial advantage for Zimbabwean businesses seeking to broaden their markets,” he said.
The renewed focus on Africa aligns with France’s broader strategy to deepen economic ties with nations across the continent, fostering development and cooperation.
As Zimbabwe continued to engage with international partners under the “Engagement and re-engagement drive”, the “Zimbabwe is open for Business” and “Friend to all, enemy to none”, this partnership with France is expected to open new avenues for trade and investment.
