Online Reporter
President Mnangagwa is hosting a New Year reception this morning at State House for Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited to Zimbabwe.
The annual event underscores Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening diplomatic ties and fostering international cooperation.
It also provides a platform for engagement as the country continues to enhance relations with nations across the globe.
Our reporter, Wallace Ruzvidzo, is at the venue, bringing us live coverage.
President diplomatic reception concludes
The New Year diplomatic reception has concluded following a vote of thanks from the Dean of Ambassadors, Rwandan Ambassador to Zimbabwe, James Musoni.
Ambassador Musoni expressed gratitude on behalf of the diplomatic corps for the President’s hospitality and the opportunity to engage in meaningful dialogue.
The event wrapped up with a meet-and-greet session, where each Ambassador in attendance had the opportunity to personally shake hands with the President, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s commitment to strong diplomatic ties.
President underlines Zim’s commitment to global peace, dialogue
President Mnangagwa has reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to international dialogue and cooperation as the country bids for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term.
Speaking at a New Year reception for Heads of Diplomatic Missions at State House, President Mnangagwa expressed gratitude for the endorsements Zimbabwe has received from countries including Russia, Cuba and India, as well as from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the African Union (AU).
“Your presence testifies to the strong bond of friendship with Zimbabwe,” he said, welcoming the accredited Ambassadors.
Harare is vying for one of the two seats set aside for the African group of nations.
Should Zimbabwe succeed, it will assume a crucial role in the UNSC, a principal organ responsible for maintaining international peace and security, from 2027 to 2028.
This achievement would grant the country enhanced authority to shape and influence global affairs.
As the current Chair of SADC, Zimbabwe is actively engaged in regional peace and security efforts, particularly in the conflict-ridden eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), said the President.
He reiterated Zimbabwe’s call for an immediate ceasefire in the region, emphasising the need for lasting peace.
“We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire,” he said.
He also outlined initiatives under the Second Republic aimed at attaining an upper-middle-income society status by 2030 and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s openness to partnerships with all nations.
Zimbabwe reaffirms commitment to global engagement
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, has reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to maintaining friendly relations with all nations, emphasising the country’s diplomatic stance of being “a friend to all and enemy to none.”
Speaking at a New Year reception for Heads of Diplomatic Missions at State House this morning, Prof Murwira highlighted Zimbabwe’s ongoing efforts to strengthen global partnerships.
“This gathering is a testimony to that posture,” he said, crediting President Mnangagwa for his leadership in advancing Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement policy.
Following his remarks, Prof Murwira introduced President Mnangagwa to the podium to deliver the keynote address.
President arrives as proceedings begin
President Mnangagwa has arrived in the auditorium, signalling the start of proceedings.
The event began with the singing of the national anthem, setting the tone for the day.
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Permanent Secretary, Ambassador Albert Chimbindi, is serving as the director of ceremonies.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, has now taken the podium to deliver brief remarks before introducing the guest of honour, President Mnangagwa, who will deliver the keynote address.
Vibrant atmosphere ahead of New Year reception for diplomats
The atmosphere at State House is lively as President Mnangagwa is set to host a New Year reception for Heads of Diplomatic Missions accredited to Zimbabwe.
Dressed in elegant attire, the diplomats are mingling with enthusiasm — laughter and lively conversations filling the venue.
Nearly all Heads of Diplomatic Missions are in attendance, engaging in animated conversations while awaiting the President’s arrival.
Beyond the celebrations, the gathering is serving as a platform for strengthening diplomatic ties, fostering unity and collaboration among nations.
The Ambassadors have arrived and are currently networking, awaiting President Mnangagwa’s arrival. @RuzvidzoWallace
