Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere
Senior Reporter
Zimbabwe aims to finalise its comprehensive economic partnership agreement with the United Arab Emirates to enhance collaboration in trade, investment, and innovation, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira has announced.
This initiative follows the UAE’s emergence as Zimbabwe’s top export partner, with bilateral trade soaring to over US$3 billion in 2024, up from US$2 billion in 2022.
He made the announcement yesterday at a reception celebrating the 54th anniversary of the founding of the UAE, in a speech delivered on his behalf by Permanent Secretary Ambassador Albert Chimbindi.
Prof Murwira stated that Zimbabwe’s foreign policy underscores economic diplomacy, multilateralism, and human-centred development.
“The United Arab Emirates has become Zimbabwe’s leading export partner, with bilateral trade reaching US$3 billion in 2024,” he said. “This achievement demonstrates how doctrine, policy, and friendship converge to deliver prosperity.”
Looking ahead, he expressed readiness to conclude the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with the UAE, thereby deepening cooperation in trade, investment, and innovation.
Prof Murwira also expressed optimism for ongoing multilateral collaboration, including support for Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027 to 2028 period. He highlighted joint investment opportunities, particularly in the tourism sector.
“Zimbabwe’s world-renowned destinations such as Victoria Falls and Hwange, along with the UAE’s dynamic tourism offerings, present significant opportunities for joint promotion. By aligning our strengths—from luxury and adventure travel to unique nature-based experiences—we can attract more visitors and create cross-market tourism packages that benefit both nations,” he said.
The potential for academic collaboration was also emphasised. “Universities and research institutions in Zimbabwe and the UAE can expand collaboration in science, technology, and innovation, while academic exchanges can enrich learning environments in both countries. This partnership ensures that our youths acquire the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly knowledge-driven global economy,” said Prof Murwira.
UAE Ambassador to Zimbabwe Dr Jassim Mohamed Al-Qassimi reflected on the UAE’s journey, describing it as one driven by “a vision and unwavering determination of a unique model of construction, development, and progress.” He noted that the UAE is home to over 200 nationalities living in harmony.
“In recent years, the UAE has become a major market for Zimbabwean goods, particularly minerals and agricultural products,” he said. “This has contributed to Zimbabwe’s sustainable economic growth, making the UAE Zimbabwe’s second-largest trading partner after South Africa. Bilateral trade reached US$3.2 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach US$4 billion this year.”
Ambassador Al-Qassimi added that in line with Vision 2030, the UAE government is coordinating with Zimbabwe to implement several development projects during 2025 to 2026, particularly in health and education.
