Zimbabwe’s UNSC election draws global praise

ZIMBABWE’S election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027–2028 term has attracted widespread international applause.

Following the country’s emphatic victory during an election process held on Wednesday in New York, the UN headquarters, major global powers have described the development as a testament to the country’s growing influence in international affairs and commitment to multilateralism.

The messages of congratulations came as Zimbabwe celebrates the landmark diplomatic achievement following its successful bid for a seat on the world body’s most powerful organ responsible for maintaining international peace and security.

China was among the first countries to congratulate Zimbabwe, describing the election as recognition of the country’s contribution to global peace, sustainable development and multilateral cooperation.

“Warmest congratulations to Zimbabwe on its election to the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member.

“This outcome duly acknowledges Zimbabwe’s valuable contributions to advancing global peace, multilateralism and sustainable development,” said the Government of China.

Beijing also said it was looking forward to strengthening cooperation with Zimbabwe both within the UNSC framework and across broader areas of mutual interest.

France also welcomed Zimbabwe’s election, with the French Embassy in Harare describing the development as a significant diplomatic achievement.

“The French Embassy congratulates Zimbabwe on its election by the UN General Assembly to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.

“As a permanent member of the Security Council, France welcomes Zimbabwe’s commitment to a world built on peace, security, international law and multilateralism,” the French embassy said.

France said it was ready to work closely with Zimbabwe and other newly elected members of the Council in addressing emerging global security challenges while upholding the principles of the United Nations Charter.

The embassy further described Zimbabwe’s election as “a diplomatic achievement” and “a testament to its growing role in international affairs.”

Italy joined the chorus of congratulations, with the Embassy of Italy in Harare wishing Zimbabwe success during its tenure on the Security Council.

“The Embassy of Italy in Harare congratulates Zimbabwe on its election as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.

“We wish Zimbabwe every success in contributing to international peace, security and multilateral cooperation,” the embassy said.

The Embassy of Turkey warmly congratulated Zimbabwe on its election, saying Ankara looked forward to working closely with Harare in advancing international peace and security.

The United Kingdom, meanwhile, has expressed its eagerness to work with Zimbabwe in the UNSC while deepening trade and economic cooperation between the two countries.

This was said by outgoing UK Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Peter Vowles, after paying a courtesy call on Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in Harare yesterday.

“I congratulated the Vice President and Zimbabwe on joining the United Nations Security Council following the vote,” said Amb Vowles.

“The UK, as a Security Council member, is looking forward to working with Zimbabwe on some of the global challenges we face today — climate change, peace and security and territorial sovereignty.”

The growing number of congratulatory messages from across the international community is being viewed as further endorsement of Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement policy and its increasing participation in regional and global diplomacy.

Zimbabwe secured an overwhelming victory in the election held at the United Nations General Assembly, receiving 182 votes out of 190 cast, one of the highest endorsements among the newly elected non-permanent members.

The country will officially assume its seat on the United Nations Security Council in January 2027, where it is expected to contribute to discussions and decisions on international peace, security, conflict resolution and global cooperation.