Online Reporter
Mukudzei Chingwere in ROME, Italy
Zimbabwe is actively pursuing a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, emphasising peace as a central theme, an objective that aligns closely with the Vatican’s commitment to stability and harmony, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira has said.
Prof Murwira said this here while accompanying Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga, who represented President Mnangagwa at the inaugural mass of Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican City.
He said Zimbabwe’s foreign policy focuses on world peace, which resonates with the Vatican’s aspirations. “His Excellency the President Dr ED Mnangagwa received an invitation from the Pope to attend the inaugural mass and he sent the Honourable Vice President Dr Chiwenga to represent him,” said Prof Murwira.
He explained that the core message of Zimbabwe’s bid for the UN Security Council is peace. “The main context of this is that Zimbabwe, in its foreign policy, looks at world peace, maintenance of peace, and an environment in which Zimbabwe can thrive socially, economically, and politically,” he said.
Prof Murwira pointed out that the Vatican also stands for peace and social order, reinforcing the alignment of interests between Zimbabwe and the Holy See.
He referenced Zimbabwe’s constitutional mandate to promote peace through international collaborations.
“As you would know, Zimbabwe is bidding for the UN Security Council post in 2027-2028 and our message is peace, and the message that the Vatican stands for is peace, so you can see that we have got a convergence of interest in terms of the way we relate,” he said.
In addition to peace advocacy, the late Pope Francis initiated programmes to promote education for girls in Zimbabwe, supporting health services and empowering the youth. Prof Murwira confirmed that despite Pope Francis’ death, his initiatives will continue. He reassured that the stability of relations between Zimbabwe and the Vatican remains strong. “So, whatever we were doing, we will continue doing and even accelerate on what we are doing,” he remarked.
He highlighted the significance of the Roman Catholic Church, noting its importance in Zimbabwe’s foreign policy.
“So, relations or excellent relations that exist between the Vatican and Zimbabwe have to be maintained and even excelled,” he said.
The Vatican’s involvement in socio-economic activities within Zimbabwe, including education and initiatives to boost the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), was also emphasised.
Zimbabwe’s enduring partnership with the Catholic Church is expected to advance, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, education, and health. The collaboration is seen as essential for the overall development of communities like Driefontein.
