Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in JOHANNESBURG, South Africa
VICE President Dr Constantino Chiwenga arrives here today to lead Zimbabwe’s delegation to the 2024 G20 Summit, a crucial platform that offers Harare an opportunity to strengthen global economic engagement.
Despite Zimbabwe not being a member of the bloc, VP Chiwenga’s participation positions the country to tap into discussions shaping a sustainable and inclusive international economic order and to pitch for investment and partnerships with the world’s most influential economies.
The G20 comprises 19 countries and the European Union, and in 2023 formally incorporated the African Union, bringing together nations that collectively account for 85 percent of global Gross Domestic Product, 75 percent of international trade and two-thirds of the world’s population.
Zimbabwe is participating at the invitation of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who holds the G20 presidency this year.
For Zimbabwe – whose economic gains under the Second Republic have been noted by institutions such as the IMF and World Bank – the summit provides a strategic opening to attract foreign direct investment and deepen cooperation with major economies.
Speaking to journalists in Pretoria, Zimbabwe’s Chargé d’Affaires Mr Shephard Gwenzi confirmed the Vice President’s expected arrival and outlined part of his programme.
“We are expecting the Honourable Vice President here on the 20th (today) of this month to represent His Excellency, the President, Dr Mnangagwa at the G20 Summit, who could not attend because of other commitments,” said Mr Gwenzi.
“Zimbabwe is not a member of the G20 but is coming as an invited guest that like others that have been invited to the Summit.
“Besides the G20 Summit, VP Chiwenga is expected to meet with his counterpart, the Honourable Vice President Paul Mashatile of the Republic of South Africa. We expect that meeting to focus on bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and South Africa.”
With global economic challenges mounting, the summit provides Zimbabwe with a timely opportunity to advance its interests, consolidate diplomatic ties and seek support for ongoing economic reforms.
