Story by Oleen Ndori, Foreign Editor
ZIMBABWE and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to deepen bilateral relations and strengthen cooperation on multilateral platforms following high-level talks between Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister, Professor Amon Murwira, and Kyrgyzstan’s Foreign Minister, Jeenbek Kulubaev, in New York.
The discussions focused on expanding diplomatic and economic engagement, with both countries committing to practical steps aimed at enhancing cooperation and advancing shared interests on the international stage.
The meeting comes as the Kyrgyz Republic intensifies efforts to broaden its partnerships across Africa under a new foreign policy strategy that prioritises engagement with the continent.
Speaking after the talks, Kyrgyzstan’s Ambassador, Mr Mirbek Karybaev, said Africa occupies an increasingly important place in his country’s foreign policy.
“Since 2021, our foreign policy has entered a new strategic phase focused on expanding and strengthening relations with African countries, as we see immense potential across the continent. We firmly believe that Africa possesses significant economic and human potential, and we look forward to deepening and advancing practical bilateral cooperation with Zimbabwe,” he said.
Mr Karybaev said the relationship between the two countries is anchored on shared values and common aspirations.
“We recognise that our countries are united not only by shared interests but, more importantly, by common values. It is these values that truly bring us together,” he added.
The discussions also highlighted the growing importance of South-to-South cooperation, with both countries expressing a desire to work more closely within international institutions.
“We believe our South-to-South cooperation is very important, including close cooperation within multilateral platforms. Together, we can amplify the joint voice of the Global South on international platforms, among which the United Nations is the most important,” said Mr Karybaev.
He noted that Zimbabwe and Kyrgyzstan share similar views on key global governance issues, including the need for reform of the United Nations system.
“We are very happy that our visions match on the issues we need to promote within the United Nations, including the reform of the United Nations and the need for more African representation in the Security Council,” he said.
The engagement marks a significant step in strengthening relations between Harare and Bishkek, with both countries expressing optimism that closer cooperation will contribute to a stronger collective voice for developing nations in global affairs.
Zimbabwe and Kyrgyzstan are currently pursuing non-permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council, representing Africa and Central Asia respectively, a development that officials say provides further scope for collaboration on international issues.
