MPs undergo diplomatic training to enhance global engagement

 

Ray Bande
Senior Reporter

SPEAKER of Parliament, Advocate Jacob Mudenda has urged Zimbabweans, regardless of their social status, to serve as good ambassadors for the country worldwide, promoting a positive national reputation.

Advocate Mudenda made the remarks while addressing lawmakers gathered in Mutare for a diplomatic training workshop focused on Parliament’s role in shaping Zimbabwe’s international engagement.

The workshop, themed “The Role of Parliament in International Relations, Ratifications, and Domestication of International Agreements and Protocols,” aims to deepen legislators’ understanding of international relations.

He emphasized that Zimbabwe’s diplomatic policy and reputation begin with individual Zimbabweans.

Advocate Mudenda said diplomacy is rooted in the principle of Ubuntu, which values interconnectedness and community.

He quoted scholar Simon Anholt, saying countries must carefully manage their reputation, as it is reflected in the actions of individual citizens.

“As Zimbabweans, we are ambassadors of our nation wherever we go. Our words and actions should tell a positive story about Zimbabwe. We must conduct ourselves in a way that makes our country shine on the global stage,” he said, cautioning parliamentarians, and general public to be mindful of their behaviour, even in seemingly minor aspects such as food and drink consumption, as it reflects on the nation’s identity.

He emphasized the critical role parliamentarians play in advancing Zimbabwe’s diplomatic policy.

“As MPs, your responsibilities extend beyond law-making and oversight. Through parliamentary diplomacy, you shape and advance Zimbabwe’s diplomatic stance by ratifying global policies and programmes,” he said.

Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza also highlighted the importance of cultivating good relationships with other countries to ensure national development and security. “These relationships impact trade, investment, diplomacy, and our global standing. Therefore, it is essential that our MPs acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to navigate complex international relations,” he said.

The diplomatic training workshop aims to equip MPs with the expertise to effectively participate in the ratification and domestication of international agreements and protocols, with resource persons from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade making presentations on various topics during the workshop.