Story by Stanley James
ZIMBABWE and China have reaffirmed their long-standing bilateral relations, rooted in a shared liberation history, with Beijing pledging to further deepen cooperation in support of Zimbabwe’s development agenda.
The renewed commitment was underscored on Wednesday when the Chinese Embassy in Zimbabwe hosted a reception in Harare for Veterans of the Liberation Struggle, highlighting the historical foundations of the two countries’ ties.
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency Mr Zhou Ding, read a letter from Chinese President His Excellency Xi Jinping addressed to Zimbabwe’s war veterans, in which the Chinese leader reaffirmed China’s enduring solidarity with Zimbabwe and its readiness to expand cooperation.
“The friendship between China and Zimbabwe was forged in the fires of Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle. At a time when China itself faced significant challenges, we stood firmly with our Zimbabwean and African brothers, offering unwavering political support, critical military training and substantial material assistance.
“Our veterans, including many here today, transformed the knowledge and skills gained in China into strength for Zimbabwe’s liberation and forged an unbreakable bond between our two nations. I wish to pay the highest tribute to your historic contributions,” President Xi said.
Zimbabwe-China Friendship Association chairperson, Honourable Webster Shamu, said the response from the Chinese leadership reflects the depth of relations between the two countries.
“Today marks a historical era in the history of China and Zimbabwe. We are gathered here to receive a response to a letter written by the War Veterans of Zimbabwe to the President of China. Despite his tight schedule, the prompt response underscores the importance of our veterans to solidarity, peace and development,” he said.
Veterans of the Liberation Struggle also expressed appreciation for China’s role during Zimbabwe’s fight for independence.
“China did not merely offer words of solidarity, it provided concrete support through military training, political education, and ideological grounding to our cadres who were preparing to liberate our country,” Deputy Minister of Veterans of the Liberation Struggle Affairs, Cde Headman Moyo said.
Representing the younger generation, Mr Herbert Mushangwe said the relationship between Zimbabwe and China continues to inspire cooperation across generations.
“As we mark 70 years of China-Africa diplomatic ties, we celebrate a partnership that enriches our lives. A partnership of life-transforming people-to-people exchange,” he said.
The reception also highlighted China’s sustained diplomatic and development support to Zimbabwe over the past 46 years, with both sides reaffirming their commitment to strengthening political, economic and people-to-people relations.
