Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE has positively contributed to the peaceful resolution of conflicts in the region, guided by its belief in the principles of sovereignty, equality and peaceful coexistence among nations, President Mnangagwa has said.
In a speech read on his behalf by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Friday night, the President said Zimbabwe, during its chairpersonship of SADC, had spearheaded joint historic diplomatic efforts with East African Community (EAC) in the search for peace in eastern DRC.
“We stand by the principle that peace is not merely the absence of war, but the presence of justice, equity and respect for human dignity,” said President Mnangagwa.
“Working with other member states, Zimbabwe has contributed towards the resolution of conflicts in the region, including spearheading joint diplomatic efforts with the East African Community (EAC), in the search for peace in eastern DRC. Our consistent contribution to UN peacekeeping missions in conflict areas is a testimony to our commitment towards peace and security for all.”
Zimbabwean peacekeepers, he said, have demonstrated a high degree of professionalism wherever they have been deployed.
Guided by its legacy of commitment to peace and determined to share experiences, Zimbabwe has since presented its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027–2028.
“We trust that our candidature merits the invaluable support of all member states at the election to be held in June 2026. Zimbabwe pursues a doctrine of friend to all and an enemy to none. As such, we are ready and available to work with all members of the United Nations.”
President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe’s participation in multilateral processes is aimed at advancing peace and security, human rights and sustainable development for the integrity, dignity and prosperity for all.
He also called for the reform of the United Nations in line with “contemporary realities”, as well as the global and economic financial system, which remains skewed against the Global South.
“We welcome the Secretary-General’s UN80 Initiative on reforming the UN. The reform must allow the organisation to evolve in line with contemporary realities, while strengthening and not diminishing the voice and participation of developing countries,” he said.
“Any reform that sidelines the aspirations of the Global South runs contrary to the very spirit of the UN Charter. For the United Nations to remain legitimate, effective and responsive, its reform must be member state-driven, inclusive and anchored in the principle of sovereign equality of all member states … The global economic and financial system remains skewed against the Global South, compounding debt distress and entrenching poverty. The reform of the international financial architecture is a critical necessity to unlock development finance, especially for the developing countries that have remained peripheral to the development chain. We emphasise the importance of a fair and rules-based international trading system that ensures equitable opportunities for all nations, particularly developing countries.”
Tinaye Agere