daniel chigunwe
Curtworth Masango
THE French Embassy in Zimbabwe on Wednesday night celebrated the successful hosting of the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics in Paris.
The celebrations were held at their embassy in Harare.
France Ambassador to Zimbabwe Paul Bertrand Barets hosted the event.
Deputy Sports Minister Emily Jesaya and Zimbabwe Olympic Committee CEO Marlene Gadzirayi were among the high-profile guests.
Ambassador Barets said:
“My finest memory was when I saw the Zimbabwean athletes sailing along the river carrying their flag in the heart of Paris and you can imagine my introduction to my new country of residence.
“Then, afterwards I managed to mingle with the different amazing athletes and Paraathletes in a delegation led by Vice President Chiwenga and the Minister of Sports Kirsty Coventry.
“We have an athlete who is with us today who finished the most difficult marathon ever and the rest who made history.
“I am grateful to all the athletes who are with us here as we celebrate the sports relationship between France and Zimbabwe.”
Dep Min Jesaya said:
“As we celebrate the success of our athletes at the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics, I want to convey my gratitude to the French Embassy for their unwavering support of athletics in Zimbabwe.
“I recognise all our talented Olympic and Paralympic athletes who took part.
“Your achievements exemplifies the spirit of resilience and perseverance as you have made our nation proud. “Thank you for your hardwork and inspiring the next generation.”
She added:
“Participating in Paris had a profound development on our athletes’ development both on and off the field.
“The support provided at the Olympic Village fostered an environment that encouraged growth, learning and collaboration.
“Our technical staff also gained invaluable insights from France’s exceptional hosting which will prepare us for future competitions.
“This highlights the importance of international collaboration in sport but also reaffirms our commitment to excellence.
“It is important to provide our athletes with resources to continue developing them. I also want to take this opportunity to thank the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, for his commitment to sport development and unwavering support.”
Online Reporter