Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba in Geneva, Switzerland
Zimbabwe is at an advanced stage of ratifying four key international conventions on inland transport and vehicle regulations, a move expected to enhance road safety, streamline trade and align the country’s transport systems with global standards.
Transport and Infrastructural Development Minister Felix Mhona disclosed this at the ongoing 88th session of the United Nations Inland Transport Committee (ITC) at the United Nations Palais des Nations, where Zimbabwe is participating alongside other member states to advance innovation and cooperation in the transport sector.
Conventions under consideration include the 1957 Agreement concerning the International Carriage of Dangerous Goods by Road (ADR); the 1958 Agreement on Uniform Technical Prescriptions for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and Parts and reciprocal recognition of approvals; the 1997 Agreement on Uniform Conditions for Periodical Inspection of Wheeled Vehicles; and the 1998 Agreement establishing Global Technical Regulations for Wheeled Vehicles, Equipment and Parts.
Minister Mhona said Government was moving swiftly to complete the parliamentary processes required for ratification.
“As we deliberate, Zimbabwe is at an advanced stage towards ratification of four conventions relating to inland transport and vehicle regulations.
“We will move with speed to finalise the parliamentary process, with the view that we cause deposition of requisite instruments of ratification before year end,” he said.
He said Zimbabwe’s participation reflected its foreign policy posture of maintaining cooperative relations within the international community.
“Indeed, Zimbabwe embraces smart, win-win partnerships and sustainable cooperation with multilateral stakeholders within the framework of the ITC, through its foreign policy of ‘enemy to none and friends to all’. We have no doubt that cooperation inspires innovation in inland transport,” said Minister Mhona.
