Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure
Zimpapers Politics Hub
THE level of economic cooperation between Zimbabwe and China has reached new heights, marked by the implementation and commissioning of various projects in health, energy, agriculture, infrastructure development and ICT sectors, Acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has said.
Speaking at the celebration of the 76th anniversary of China and the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and China, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri, highlighted the excellent bilateral relations between the two countries, which have evolved from a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation” to a “Zimbabwe-China All-Weather Community with a Shared Future”.
This transition occurred during President Mnangagwa’s recent visit to China.
“This great milestone is not just a testament to our strong friendship and partnership, but also a reminder of the mutual respect, understanding, and shared values that continue to bolster the ties between our two nations,” said Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri, who is also Minister of Defence.
During President Mnangagwa’s meeting with his Chinese counterpart, President Xi Jinping, the two leaders reaffirmed their “five-star iron-clad friendship”, which has set an example for solidarity and coordination between China and Africa.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri emphasised the surge of Chinese investments in Zimbabwe’s economy, endorsing the Second Republic’s efforts to promote the country as a safe and secure investment destination.
“Chinese investments in Zimbabwe’s mining industry have contributed to its growth into a US$12 billion sector.
“Top on the list is the Dinson Iron and Steel Company in Manhize, one of the largest steel producers in Africa, positioning Zimbabwe as a major player in the continental steel market,” she said.
In alignment with the National Development Strategy focusing on value addition and beneficiation of minerals, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said Zimbabwe aims to ban the export of unprocessed lithium concentrate by 2027.
“The processing of primary commodities will boost Government revenues, create decent jobs and help alleviate poverty,” she added.
Under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, cooperation between Zimbabwe and China has led to the successful completion of several projects, including the expansion of the NetOne Broadband Phase III project, the High-Performance Computing (HPC) Centre Phase II Project, the rehabilitation and upgrading of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport, and the new Parliament Building in Mt Hampden.
In the health sector, the partnership between Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals and Hunan Provincial Hospital has increased medical capacity.
Recently, Chinese medical doctors provided free cataract surgery to over 600 patients in Zimbabwe under the China-Aid Bright Journey programme.
In energy, China has assisted in addressing the country’s power deficit through new generation projects, such as the Kariba South expansion project, contributing 300 megawatts, and the Hwange 7 and 8 thermal power projects, which has added 600MW to the national grid.
Following the FOCAC decision to open green lanes for African agricultural products, Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri said Zimbabwe and China have signed three protocols to facilitate the export of Zimbabwean citrus, avocados and blueberries to China.
Plans are also underway for similar arrangements for products like macadamia nuts and chillies.
“Zimbabwe embraces education, scientific and technological development as key drivers to enhance the country’s capabilities in all sectors of the economy,” she said.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Zhou Ding expressed support for Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
He noted that Zimbabwe has consistently adopted an independent foreign policy, which China values.
“We hope that Zimbabwe can fulfil its dream of securing a UN non-permanent seat at the Security Council.
“Together, we can promote multi-polarity and foster peace and prosperity for the whole world,” said Ambassador Zhou, emphasising the long-standing friendship between China and Zimbabwe.
He added that the two countries share the same values and aspirations for peace, stability and prosperity.
“I wish Zimbabwe success in its bid for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council, as it could lead to discussions on reforming the Security Council,” said Ambassador Zhou.
He reiterated that both countries share similar views on international and regional issues, adding that Zimbabwe and China will work together to promote a multi-polar world.
Zimbabwe has adopted the mantra of “friend to all and enemy to none”, and Ambassador Zhou believes Harare will play a greater role on the international stage.
