Online Reporter
Gibson Nyikadzino
Zimpapers Politics Hub
SANCTIONS and unilateral coercive measures imposed on Zimbabwe and Iran are a test of the two nations’ ingenuity, which is informed by their shared values and resilience against foreign interference, Acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Mangaliso Ndlovu has said.
Minister Ndlovu made the remarks at an event marking the 47th anniversary of the triumph of the Islamic Revolution in Iran against the Reza Pahlavi dictatorship that subordinated national interests to foreign powers.
The Minister said that Iran’s steadfast pursuit of self-determination over 47 years strikes a profound chord with Zimbabwe
“Zimbabwe and Iran are companions in resilience, as we strive to survive under sanctions. Our bilateral relations are anchored in a shared history of struggle against foreign interference, as we navigate unilateral coercive measures. We have both learned that sanctions are tests of a nation’s ingenuity and resilience.
“Forty-seven years ago, the people of Iran stood for the principle of self-determination. They declared that the destiny of a nation must be written by its own people, and upon its own soil. This is a sentiment that resonates deeply within the soul of Zimbabwe,” Minister Ndlovu said.
He added that Zimbabwe’s cooperation with Iran in the pharmaceuticals, health care, satellite technology and agricultural mechanisation sectors is testament of a move beyond political solidarity towards “tangible, mutually beneficial partnerships”.
“We are particularly encouraged by the recent strides we have achieved together in technology transfer and innovation. We are actively pursuing joint ventures in drug manufacturing and the exciting new frontier of medical tourism, leveraging Iran’s world-class medical expertise,” Minister Ndlovu said.
Iran’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Dr Amir Hossein Hosseini, said that the 1979 revolution was far more than a transfer of power. It heralded, he said, the restoration of national sovereignty, the establishment of popular governance, and the recovery of Iran’s dignity and independence.
The Ambassador revealed that President Mnangagwa is scheduled to visit Iran this year.
“Political relations are currently at their highest possible level. Building on this strong foundation, it is timely and necessary to take practical steps to further strengthen economic, trade, and investment cooperation. Particular importance should be attached to the visit of His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa to Iran later this year, which is expected to significantly enhance our bilateral relations. In addition, the visit of His Excellency Dr Mohammad Reza Aref, First Vice President of Iran, to Harare later this year is of remarkable importance.
“Given their complementarities, the two countries are well-positioned to function as mutually reinforcing economies, ensuring tangible benefits for their peoples through enhanced trade, investment, and production,” Ambassador Hosseini said.
Iran, which has supported Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat in the United Nations Security Council, maintains strong relations with Harare as the two nations have supported each other at international fora with reciprocity.
Several diplomats and senior Government officials attended the event, which was hosted by the Iranian embassy in Harare.
