Story by Online Reporter
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabwe and Mozambique to strengthen political, economic and security cooperation, saying the two neighbours must build their countries with their own resources and people as they pursue shared development.
Speaking in Maputo during his first State Visit to Mozambique on Friday, President Mnangagwa said convening of the inaugural Zimbabwe-Mozambique Bi-National Commission (BNC) signals a renewed commitment to accelerating joint programmes across key sectors.
“I appreciate your timely decision to convene the inaugural Session of our Bi-National Commission (BNC), which reflects your commitment to strengthening and deepening the multi-pronged relations between Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Our cooperation framework under the BNC, avails the opportunity for the two of us to lead from the front as we drive and supervise the implementation of our joint projects and programmes.
“Over the years, we have witnessed cooperation in major sectors such as energy, transport, wildlife management, and security, among others. Zimbabwe stands ready to deepen and explore new frontiers of cooperation and synergies in agriculture, education, joint infrastructure development, mining, science and technology, along with other emerging fields,” he said.
President Mnangagwa noted that the two countries already cooperate in energy, transport, wildlife and security and expressed readiness to expand collaboration into agriculture, joint infrastructure development, mining, science, technology and education.
“In agriculture, joint initiatives in developing sustainable value chains, climate resilience and improving market access, are worth pursuing. With regards to Science and Technology cooperation, our Ministries responsible for higher education and innovation are challenged to collaborate as well as strengthen innovation, research and technology partnerships.
“Under our Heritage Based Education 5.0 Model, and driven by our national development philosophy “Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo” we are increasing our capabilities to innovate and produce, instead of relying on imports. We in Zimbabwe are ready to chart the path towards self-sufficiency together with you, our brothers and sisters here in Mozambique,” President Mnangagwa said.
He emphasised that Zimbabwe was ready to work closely with Mozambique to enhance technological innovation and research through strengthened institutional partnerships.
Reflecting on the liberation struggle, President Mnangagwa said the shared history between the two countries must inform future cooperation.
“My visits to your great country always invoke memories of our shared past and the rich liberation war heritage that intricately bonds our two countries together. This in-escapable past must help to shape our contemporary and strategic relations, while also informing the common future we must build for the generations to come. The people of Zimbabwe, shall never forget the sacrifice of our brothers and sisters here in Mozambique. Even today, Mozambique has stood with Zimbabwe in the fight against the illegal and unjustified sanctions,” he said.
