President Mnangagwa leaves for Mozambique

Joseph Madzimure

Zimpapers Politics Hub

President Mnangagwa has left Harare for a State visit in Maputo, Mozambique, where the two countries are set to elevate their relations from a

Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation to Bi-National Commission level.

A number of agreements, including those in agriculture, are expected to be signed.

This comes as Zimbabwe also elevated its relations with Zambia to a Bi-National Commission (BNC) last week, with President Mnangagwa and his Zambian counterpart President Hakainde Hichilema overseeing the signing of several agreements.

A BNC is a formal agreement between two countries, and is aimed at strengthening and deepening bilateral relations through structured cooperation on shared interests.

BNCs establish a framework for cooperation in various sectors, including politics, defence, security, economics, trade, and social development.

As part of broadening trade relations, Zimbabwe has proposed the formalisation of some border posts with Mozambique.

Last year, trade between Zimbabwe and Mozambique was significant, and both countries believe there is scope to stimulate further growth in their bilateral trade relations.

The two Southern African nations have enjoyed cordial relations since the days of the liberation struggle, when Maputo allowed Harare to establish bases in areas such as Chimoio, Doroei, Tembwe, and Xai Xai.

Upon his departure today, President Mnangagwa was accompanied by Industry and Commerce Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu; the Minister of

Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development, Dr Anxious Masuka; and Deputy Chief Secretary (Presidential Communications), Mr George Charamba.