Online Reporter
Kuda Bwititi in BEIJING, China
Zimbabwe is actively promoting cultural diplomacy to enhance people-to-people exchanges and unlock business opportunities, the country’s top diplomat to China, Ambassador Abigail Shonhiwa has said.
Speaking at a meeting with a delegation of Chinese art collectors and business investors in Beijing on Thursday, Ambassador Shonhiwa said the sculpting industry is a conduit for deepening the already cordial relations between the two countries.
“A partnership blending cultural appreciation with shared economic prosperity would create a richer, more meaningful connection between the people of both nations.
“Zimbabwe makes some of the best sculptures in the world, pieces born from a deep cultural heritage and exceptional skill,” Ambassador Shonhiwa said.
She said the embassy is eager to foster stronger collaborative ties between Chinese investors and Zimbabwean artists.
“Our President’s mantra in Zimbabwe is that we are open for business. We want to help you enhance collaboration with these sculptors so that we can see more of these unique artefacts gracing the Chinese market, enriching homes and galleries here,” she said.
Ambassador Shonhiwa underscored the importance of sustainable and fair trade, urging the buyers to ensure that the artists receive fair compensation for their labour and genius.
“We want these artefacts to sell at good prices. When you can buy them at their true worth, you are not just acquiring art, you are sustaining livelihoods, empowering families, and directly contributing to the growth and professionalisation of the industry back home,” she said.
This, she added, is fundamental to seeing the genuine economic empowerment of the Zimbabwean people within this creative sector.
To further solidify these connections, Ambassador Shonhiwa invited Chinese nationals to visit Zimbabwe.
She encouraged them to witness the artistic process first-hand and to explore the country’s tourist destinations.
“Such people-to-people exchanges are invaluable. They allow us to move beyond formal diplomacy and truly understand the rich nature of each other’s cultures. This deeper understanding, in turn, naturally opens up new avenues for trade and mutual business opportunities. I encourage you to visit and experience not only our art but also wonders like the majestic Victoria Falls.”
The call was met with immediate interest from several attendees, who expressed eagerness to visit Zimbabwe.
Mr Yang Yinan, a businessman who owns a gallery in China dedicated to Zimbabwean stone sculptures, testified to the superior quality of Zimbabwean artwork.
“I lived in Zimbabwe for many years, and I was profoundly impressed by the spirit and skill of sculptors from your country. The authenticity and emotional depth are unparalleled. This is why I opened a gallery here in China,” he said.
“I am keen to expand my business in Zimbabwe, not only in sculptures but in many other areas. I have become a voluntary ambassador of sorts, actively encouraging my colleagues and friends to look towards Zimbabwe for its investment climate and the excellent diplomatic ties that it enjoys with China.”
