BY BRENNA MATENDERE
CHINA’S Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi says the 45 years of diplomatic friendship between his country and Zimbabwe has stood the test of time and remained rock sock solid in changing international landscape.
He made the remarks on Friday 18 April in his message to mark 45th anniversary of Zimbabwe’s independence as well as the establishment of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Republic of Zimbabwe.
The congratulatory message was reciprocated by Professor Amon Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe.
The Foreign Ministers reaffirmed both countries’ commitment to further enhancing the China-Zimbabwe Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation and jointly building a high-level China-Zimbabwe community with a shared future.
Said Yi:
“Since the establishment of diplomatic ties 45 years ago, our two countries have always treated each other as equals with sincerity and friendship, and stayed committed to mutual benefit and common development.
“In recent years, under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Emmerson Mnangagwa, China and Zimbabwe have continuously deepened political nmutual trust and achieved notable results in practical cooperation, delivering tangible benefits to our two peoples.”
On his part, Murwira said the long standing relationship between China and Zimbabwe is satisfactory.
“It is my sincere hope that the momentum we have achieved over the years in our bilateral and economic relations, will continue to advance our common interests in a mutually rewarding manner.
“The milestone is not just a testament to our enduring friendship and partnership but also a reminder of the mutual respect, understanding and shared values that continue to cement the ties between our two countries,” he said.
A welcome message by Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding posted in 2023 on the Chinese website states that current world major changes will not affect China-Zimbabwe relations.The message says the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe will implement “the important consensus reached by the two heads of state (President Xi and President Mnangagwa), (to) continuously promote the friendly cooperation between our two countries across the board, further enhance mutual understanding and cordial friendship between the peoples, and bring China-Zimbabwe relations to a new level.”
At present the world is grappling with changes in trade policies by the United States that has seen China tariffs being increased significantly President Donald Trump with Beijing also responding.
The ambassador said the embassy is also duty bound to protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese institutions, enterprises and nationals in Zimbabwe, and provide them efficient and convenient services.
When President Mnangagwa visited Beijing in 2024, there was subsequent signing of 17 legal instruments, including 14 Memoranda of Understanding and three Letters of Exchange, aimed at expanding collaboration in critical sectors such as investment, trade, infrastructure, mineral resources, renewable energy, and digital technology.
Reports made last year by ambassador Ding at the Chinese embassy indicated that Zimbabwe’s trade and investment volumes have surged significantly, with Chinese investments increasing from $445.9 million in 2019 to $3.4 billion in 2023.
Cultural exchanges have also taken place between the countries to promote mutual understanding in addition to educational programs, art exhibitions, and festivals.
