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Herald Reporter
THE Russian Embassy in Harare yesterday hosted a colourful event to commemorate Russia’s National Day, where speakers praised the relations that exist between the two countries.
The National Day is commemorated every year on June 12, and yesterday’s event was a belated celebration.
On June 12, 1991, the Russian Parliament formally declared Russian sovereignty from the Soviet Union, which was officially dissolved in December that year, and the June 12 holiday was established in 1992.
Russian Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nikolai Krasilnikov, yesterday said Moscow and Harare will continue to strengthen ties in various sectors of the economy.
He also applauded the practical solutions adopted by the two countries in solving challenges for the benefit of their citizens.
In the education sector, Ambassador Krasilnikov said Russia has been increasing the number of scholarships allocated to young Zimbabweans, with 125 benefitting this year.
He said “even more” young people will benefit next year.
In his remarks, Acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, said Zimbabwe was appreciative of the support it gets from Russia.
He said a number of agreements have been signed between Zimbabwe and Russia, in various sectors of the economy, and have helped Harare navigate the impact of sanctions imposed by the West led by the United States.
“A number of bilateral instruments of co-operation have been signed in sectors that include higher education, innovation, in science, in technology, in mining, in agriculture, in tourism, and environment and these instruments are all at significantly commendable stages of implementation,” said Prof Murwira.
He added that Zimbabwe was “very appreciative of Russian investments” in the mining sector, which have contributed to boost the industry and increase foreign currency generation as well as downstream benefits to communities where the mining is taking place.
Yesterday’s event was attended by a number of Government and ruling party officials including ZANU PF spokesperson Cde Chris Mutsvangwa, former Foreign Affairs Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, and Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Mr Nick Mangwana.
A number of African, Asian and European diplomats also attended the event.
Speaking on June 12, Russian President Vladimir Putin said: “This public holiday marks the inseparability of our centuries-old history, the greatness and glory of the fatherland.”
Online Reporter
leeroy