Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
ECONOMIC diplomacy is paying off with Zimbabwe and Zambia committing to enhanced trade and investment cooperation following the Zimbabwe-Zambia Business Forum held in Harare this Thursday.
The forum created a platform for further strengthening collaboration across key economic sectors, as both nations seek to boost industrial growth, exports, and regional integration.
Zambia’s private sector expressed optimism over the growing ties with Zimbabwe.
“As the private sector from Zambia, it is our belief and view that growth in relations will spur development, so this is critical in shaping the economic growth landscape for the two economies,” Zambian businessman, Mr Fredrick Malambo said.
“I have come to seek business opportunities in Zimbabwe, so indeed there is that scope for growth and viability, which is a vital element in further enhancing business in line with the aspirations of fulfilling the mandate of this forum,” added another Zambian businessman, Mr Dhananjay Datar added.
From the Zimbabwean side, Zimtrade Chief Executive Officer, Mr Allan Majuru noted; “This platform is very important as it seeks to address the needs of the two countries. Remember we have similarities, so it is within such elements that cooperation is very vital in enhancing the scope of business ties.”
“The two countries are strategic in the SADC region so we are here to identify opportunities and share ideas on investment linkages that are key to job creation and export growth. Going forward, Zimbabwe is further committed to doing more business with Zambia,” added Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency CEO, Mr Tafadzwa Chinamo.
The Zimbabwe-Zambia Business Forum was held ahead of the Bi-National Commission (BNC) scheduled for Harare this Friday, where high-level discussions are expected to further consolidate bilateral cooperation.
