Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo, Harare bureau
THE United Kingdom is “absolutely committed” to building a partnership with Zimbabwe based on equality and mutual respect, UK Minister for Africa, Lord Collins of Highbury, has said.
The British envoy paid a courtesy call on President Mnangagwa at State House yesterday.
Speaking to the media following his closed-door meeting with the President, the House of Lords member said the new UK Government, led by Prime Minister Keir Starmer, is focused on aligning with Africa’s priorities—“not just ours”.
“We are absolutely committed to building a partnership—one based on equality and respect, but also on a simple mission: economic growth that benefits both our peoples, creating a win-win situation.
“The new government in the United Kingdom is committed to a fresh approach to the African continent. Last year, we launched a consultation on our strategy—one centred on listening rather than dictating, and on focusing on Africa’s agenda, not simply our own.
“That win-win situation is something we all want—to ensure future prosperity for Zimbabwe and the United Kingdom. I’ve been very pleased with the outcome of that consultation, and as we move forward, we are absolutely clear that our approach is not one-size-fits-all,” he said.
In recent years, relations between Harare and London have continued to improve, driven by the Second Republic’s engagement and re-engagement diplomatic strategy.
“As part of this thawing of relations, the UK recently lifted sanctions on several Zimbabwean officials, including Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture Minister Lieutenant General (Rtd) Anselem Sanyatwe, former Director-General Isaac Moyo, Midlands Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Owen Ncube, and the Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI).
Lord Collins described his meeting with President Mnangagwa as “very positive” and reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with Zimbabwe.
“It’s been a real pleasure to meet His Excellency this morning, and a real pleasure to be here in Zimbabwe. We had a very positive exchange, and I’m extremely pleased. I look forward to returning to Zimbabwe. It’s about strengthening our bilateral relationship. I told His Excellency that I’m determined to return to ensure we deliver on our promises,” he said.
Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Mangaliso Ndlovu, who also attended the meeting, said discussions were cordial, with President Mnangagwa reaffirming Zimbabwe’s openness to business.
“It was a very cordial discussion. The President welcomed his guest warmly and reiterated that Zimbabwe remains open for business. He expressed satisfaction with the progress being made in improving relations between the two countries.
“It was a very good and warm meeting between the President and Minister Lord Collins—and he promised to return,” said Minister Ndlovu.
On the business front, Minister Ndlovu noted that Lord Collins had also met with British businesspeople operating in Zimbabwe.
“He mentioned that he had a breakfast meeting with mainly British businesspeople. His focus is on exploring how they can be supported to invest more and facilitate trade,” he said.
