Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo, Harare Bureau
ZIMBABWE is a strong advocate of global peace and its victory in securing non-permanent representation in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) was well deserved, Equatorial Guinea President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo said last week.
In a communiqué, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira revealed that President Mbasogo made these remarks as he congratulated Zimbabwe for winning the UNSC seat for the 2027-2028 term.
Prof Murwira delivered the communique on Friday, at the conclusion of the Bi-National Commission co-chaired by President Mnangagwa and President Mbasogo, who was in the country on a State visit. “The two Heads of State and Government expressed concern over current geopolitical developments and the rising tensions in various regions,” he said.
“They reaffirmed the importance of upholding international law and the principles enshrined in the UN Charter, including the peaceful settlement of disputes, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and non-interference in the internal affairs of the country.
“In this regard, they called for dialogue, diplomacy and multilateral co-operation to ensure the peaceful resolution of disputes and the promotion of international peace and security. “The two Heads of State committed to collaborating on sustainable utilisation of wildlife resources and ensure that African perspectives are reflected in global conservation policies.”
The State visit was preceded by the inaugural session of the Joint Permanent Commission on Co-operation and was aimed at further strengthening excellent bilateral relations between the two countries, with particular emphasis on enhancing co-operation in political and diplomatic spheres, economic matters, trade and investment, tourism, energy, agriculture, education, research, immigration, defence and international services.
During the visit, the two Heads of State held official bilateral talks at State House in Harare. The discussions were conducted in a cordial and constructive atmosphere, reflecting the excellent relations between the two countries.
“The two leaders reaffirmed the excellent bilateral ties between Zimbabwe and Equatorial Guinea, and expressed their shared commitment to further deepen and strengthen this relationship, encourage common values and fund African solidarity for the mutual benefit of their peoples,” said Prof Murwira.
“The Heads of State exchanged views on regional, continental and international issues of mutual interest and concern. The two Heads of State expressed their shared concern over evolving geopolitical developments, noting their adverse impacts on economic stability, particularly in developing countries, and underscored the importance of coordinated responses in bilateral relations.”
The Heads of State underscored the importance of further strengthening and broadening areas of cooperation between the two nations.
In that regard, they welcomed the signing of bilateral agreements on economic and trade cooperation, the memorandum of understanding (MoU) on cooperation in the training of translators and interpreters, the rules of procedure of the Joint Commission for Cooperation and the MoU on cooperation in the field of education.
“The two Heads of State and Government undertook to ensure the expeditious implementation of the signing of the memorandum and the finalisation of laws that are still outstanding,” said Prof Murwira.
“The two Heads of State and Government reaffirmed their commitment to improve the movement of people and goods between the two countries.
“Zimbabwe expressed appreciation for the unwavering commitment of the government and the people of Equatorial Guinea for their principled stance regarding the removal of illegal economic sanctions which were imposed on Zimbabwe by Western countries.
“At the multilateral level, the Heads of State and Government welcomed conventional views on regional, continental and international issues. They further agreed to continue to harmonise their position. In that regard, they reiterated their call for the importance of reforming the international system, particularly the United Nations Security Council.”
Prof Murwira said President Mbasogo expressed gratitude to President Mnangagwa, his administration and the generality of Zimbabweans for their warm welcome and generous hospitality accorded to him and his delegation.
“His Excellency, President Mbasogo, extended a cordial invitation to his counterpart and dear brother, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, His Excellency, Dr Mnangagwa, to undertake a State visit to the Republic of Equatorial Guinea,” he said.
“In turn, His Excellency, Dr Mnangagwa, accepted the invitation with appreciation. The dates for the State visit will be agreed through a diplomatic channel.”
