Online Reporter
Zvamaida Murwira, Senior Zimpapers Reporter
INDIA has pledged its support for Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term — a development that significantly bolsters Zimbabwe’s campaign for greater global representation.
The endorsement was delivered yesterday by India’s Minister of State for External Affairs, Mr Kirti Vardhan Singh, during a courtesy call on President Mnangagwa at State House in Harare.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, Mr Singh confirmed that Zimbabwe and India would support each other’s candidacies for the UNSC.
“Yes, we are supporting each other in our proposals to become members of the UN Security Council. We have already pledged our support for Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat in 2027–2028, and the Government of Zimbabwe, through His Excellency President Mnangagwa, has assured its support for India’s bid for the 2029-2030 term. We will support each other,” he said.
Mr Singh highlighted the long-standing co-operation between the two nations.
“We have consistently supported each other at various international forums, including the UN, the Voice of the Global South, and other platforms. Ours has traditionally been a strong and enduring partnership.”
Zimbabwe’s bid for a UNSC seat has gained growing international backing, with endorsements already secured from Russia, Cuba, India, Senegal, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the African Union (AU).
If successful, Zimbabwe’s tenure would represent a significant milestone for both the country and the continent, as Africa seeks to amplify its voice in global security and policy discourse.
The UNSC comprises five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom, and the United States — and ten non-permanent members elected for two-year terms. Major decisions require at least nine affirmative votes, although any of the five permanent members hold veto power.
Mr Singh said he also discussed a range of bilateral issues with President Mnangagwa aimed at deepening co-operation between India and Zimbabwe.
“We share a long history of cordial and robust bilateral relations, with active engagement through ministerial and high-level visits. My visit to Zimbabwe is part of efforts to strengthen these ties and explore opportunities in trade, investment, and development for both our countries.
“We had very fruitful discussions. I am deeply grateful to the Government of Zimbabwe for the warm welcome, generosity, and hospitality. Our talks with the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs and His Excellency the President were productive and forward-looking,” he said.
India and Zimbabwe enjoy a long-standing relationship, with co-operation spanning trade, investment, and development assistance. Their ties date back to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, culminating in independence in 1980.
India has supported Zimbabwe’s development through lines of credit, grants, and capacity-building initiatives.
Thousands of members of the Indian community reside in Zimbabwe, reflecting the strength of bilateral relations.
Many Zimbabweans of Indian origin contribute significantly to the country’s economy and society.
Yesterday’s meeting was also attended by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira, Permanent Secretary Mr Albert Chimbindi, and other senior Government officials.
