Online Reporter
Herald Reporter
ZIMBABWE and China have expressed commitment to strengthening political and economic relations to drive socio-economic development.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Zhou Ding, paid a courtesy call on Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere at Munhumutapa Offices in Harare yesterday.
Speaking after a closed-door engagement, Ambassador Zhou said relations between the two governments in various fields of cooperation have benefited both countries.
“Zimbabwe and China relations have weathered many storms and we continue to partner with each other in various fields,” he said.
“We have had countless exchange programmes with the media from Zimbabwe to China and vice versa. Zimbabwe has just launched its Media Policy that sees factual reportage, and we continue to join hands.
“This year marks the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Zimbabwe. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations, China-Zimbabwe friendship has withstood the test of the evolving international landscape and remained rock-solid.”
Ambassador Zhou said China has always viewed the development of China-Zimbabwe relations from a strategic and long-term perspective, and supports Harare in safeguarding its interests and opposes external interference.
On his part, Dr Muswere said Zimbabwe and China enjoy cordial relations.
“This visit underlines the importance of cooperation. We are looking at how best we can tap into the Belt and Road Initiative and increase trade between our countries.
“Hwange Units 7 and 8 are among the success stories, alongside the new Parliament Building. A number of infrastructure projects have been implemented through cooperation with the People’s Republic of China.
“Zimbabwe firmly abides by the One-China Principle, supports the Belt and Road Initiative, and various other global and China-Africa co-operation frameworks.
“We stand ready to continue supporting each other and working closely to build a stronger Zimbabwe-China community with a shared future,” he said.
China and Zimbabwe enjoy excellent relations in critical sectors such as agriculture, energy, mining and infrastructure development.
A number of delegations from Zimbabwe have been visiting China on exchange programmes, an indication of the good relations between the two all-weather friends. – Additional reporting ZBC News.
