Online Reporter
ZIMBABWE’S Minister of Defence, Honourable Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri this week reinforced Zimbabwe’s diplomatic engagement drive at the 62nd Munich Security Conference in Germany, using the global platform to position the country as an active participant in international peace and security dialogue while engaging world leaders on areas of mutual cooperation.
The high-level conference, held under the theme “Under Destruction”, brought together about 60 Heads of State and Government, Ministers of Defence and Foreign Affairs and representatives from about 115 countries. It convened at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, marked by protracted conflicts, strategic rivalry and weakening multilateralism.
Addressing delegates at the official opening, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said the world was witnessing the erosion of the so-called rules-based international order, characterised by great power competition, struggles for spheres of influence and declining trust among nations. Discussions underscored the rise of emerging powers and the diminishing dominance of a single superpower.
Deliberations focused on strengthening defence and security cooperation within Europe to build a more resilient and independent regional framework, particularly in response to evolving United States foreign policy. The Russia–Ukraine conflict dominated proceedings, with leaders urging intensified diplomatic efforts to end hostilities.
The conference also examined security challenges in Africa and the Middle East, including the civil war in Sudan and the situation in Gaza, alongside climate change-induced disasters and related humanitarian crises. Delegates emphasised adherence to the United Nations Charter, respect for international law and the primacy of diplomacy and democratic governance in resolving disputes.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri participated in a breakfast meeting honouring women in leadership, which reaffirmed the pivotal role women play in peacebuilding and conflict resolution.
Speaking on the sidelines of the conference, she said Zimbabwe and the broader African region are not immune to shifting geopolitical dynamics and their impact on peace, security, climate change and humanitarian challenges. She noted that the forum provided Zimbabwe with an opportunity to engage and re-engage other nations in pursuit of partnerships that promote international peace and stability.
Zimbabwe’s participation aligns with President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s engagement and re-engagement policy, underpinned by the country’s stated foreign policy doctrine of being “a friend to all and an enemy to none”.
On bilateral relations, the Minister said ties between Zimbabwe and Germany are poised to strengthen under the Second Republic’s diplomatic thrust, facilitated through Zimbabwe’s embassy in Berlin. Zimbabwe’s invitation to the Munich Security Conference for a second consecutive year reflects improving relations between the two countries.
Germany continues to support peace and security initiatives in Zimbabwe and the Southern African Development Community region, including funding for mine clearance, transfrontier conservation areas and other humanitarian interventions. Both countries are also exploring expanded economic cooperation in areas of mutual interest, signalling prospects for broader bilateral engagement.
