Govt intensifies re-engagement policy

Tanaka Mahanya and Laura Maposa

THE Government is making relentless efforts to re-integrate Zimbabwe into the Global Community of Nations and make it a reputable destination for international investment and tourists.

This can be achieved through Government’s affirmation, engagement and re-engagement thrust, with a view to addressing negative perceptions about the country.

Speaking at the signing ceremony of perfomance contracts by heads of mission, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Frederick Shava, said people must promote the interests of the country.

“The performance of Government is no longer measured by many tasks and activities carried out by public officials, but by results.

“These are outputs and outcomes, attained at the end of service delivery value chain whose results must positively transform the economy and people’s welfare.

“The Ministry should play its part in ensuring that Zimbabwe is an effective participant in the Community of Nations by promoting the interests, image and influence of our country,” he said.

Zimbabweans should pull up sleeves and have an appetite for achieving big and impactful results as the onus is on the nation to establish that hallmark of performance.

He said the Diaspora Policy seeks to facilitate the Zimbabwean diaspora engagement in socio-economic development of the country in line with National Development Strategy 1.

“The Ministry must, therefore, intensify its engagement initiatives and programmes to drive the national economic development, in line with the Government’s aspirations of leaving no one and no place behind.

“The recent decision by Cabinet to establish a Cabinet Committee chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade speaks volumes of Government’s commitment to work with the Diaspora for development,” he said.

Zimbabwe’s foreign policy seeks to ensure that relations are attained to produce impactful results.

“The multi-pronged foreign policy thrust revolves around engaging those countries we have had erstwhile relations with over matters of principle and consolidating old friendships.

“This opens new economic frontiers for mutual beneficial co-operation.”