Zimbabwe’s President, Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, met with Russia’s President Vladimir Putin to discuss the strengthening of bilateral ties, marked by the ongoing support in education, agriculture, and shared positions on global issues. Current trade may be modest, but both countries see significant potential for growth and cooperation ahead.
The recent meeting between President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe and President Vladimir Putin of Russia took place at a significant moment for both nations, marking their longstanding diplomatic ties. The Russian delegation was led by Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and included key figures such as Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak and Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov among others. It was kind of a heavyweight assembly, reflecting the importance Russia places on its relations with Zimbabwe.
During the welcoming remarks, President Putin expressed gratitude for President Mnangagwa’s presence at the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War. “Zimbabwe, known as Southern Rhodesia back then, provided a training base to our allies for combat flight personnel,” he said. Putin emphasized that Zimbabwe is a reliable partner in Africa, with diplomatic relations dating back 45 years.
The Russian president noted that while current trade levels between Russia and Zimbabwe are modest, there lies ample potential across multiple sectors. These include areas such as geological exploration, energy, and agriculture. He mentioned that there are currently 460 Zimbabwean students studying in Russia, and more government scholarships for the next academic year are on the table for 125 students. Plus, about 500 Zimbabweans are engaging in online Russian language courses.
Putin highlighted Russia’s ongoing support in various forms, such as delivering significant amounts of wheat and fertilizer to Zimbabwe. “We continue to provide the necessary assistance and support to your country whenever needed,” he noted, reinforcing Russia’s commitment to Zimbabwe, particularly in agricultural development.
Moreover, the shared positions between the two countries on international issues were also discussed. They expressed unity in advocating for a multipolar world order that prioritizes global law. Putin appreciated Zimbabwe’s support for Russian initiatives at the United Nations, showcasing a strong alignment on critical global matters.
The discussion also shifted to the future of their partnership, particularly in light of the upcoming ministerial conference for the Russia–Africa Partnership Forum. “This visit presents an excellent opportunity to explore practical steps for advancing our bilateral cooperation,” Putin said, clearly optimistic about the path ahead.
Responding, President Mnangagwa acknowledged the significance of his visit. He congratulated Putin and the Russian people on the 80th anniversary celebration, emphasizing the courage and sacrifice that led to Russia’s historical victory. “It was the defining triumph of the human spirit over tyranny and oppression,” he remarked, reflecting on the depth of their shared history.
The Zimbabwean president continued to underscore the importance of these discussions for deepening cooperation. A reaffirmation of their bilateral relationship was evident as he thanked Putin, reflecting hopes for further collaboration following their last meeting in June of 2024.
Overall, this meeting illustrated a mutual determination to strengthen ties and explore new avenues for collaboration, further solidifying their relationship on the global stage.
In summary, the meeting between President Mnangagwa and President Putin not only celebrated their historical ties but also set the stage for future cooperation across various sectors. Both leaders demonstrated a clear commitment to enhancing economic ties, with an emphasis on education and mutual support. The discussions carried a tone of optimism regarding the partnership between Russia and Zimbabwe, which could prove beneficial for collaborative efforts in the upcoming years, particularly in light of the scheduled ministerial conference later this year.
Original Source: www.en.kremlin.ru
