Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has rallied the diplomatic corps to continue entrenching a culture of dialogue in international cooperation in the wake of challenges such as climate change and current international conflicts.
He was speaking at State House in Harare this Friday during an engagement with heads of diplomatic missions accredited to Zimbabwe, an initiative meant to cement ties between Zimbabwe and the international community.
Addressing the diplomats, President Mnangagwa said in light of the existing global challenges such as conflict, there is a need to entrench a culture of dialogue in international relations and cooperation frameworks.
“My government’s foreign policy thrust of engagement and re-engagement has seen responsive policies which harness opportunities and manage divergence. Undoubtedly, the ongoing engagements have opened new frontiers of cooperation and partnerships. I commend you all, for your role in advancing this focus area.
“Together, let us do more as we entrench a culture of dialogue in international relations cooperation frameworks. In this spirit, Zimbabwe remains open for dialogue aimed at the total removal of illegal sanctions. I extend gratitude to our SADC family and African brothers and sisters for their principled support and solidarity, as they amplify calls for the lifting of sanctions.”
The head of state reaffirmed the country’s commitment towards uplifting people’s livelihoods.
“I re-affirm my government’s commitment to fostering inclusive growth, consolidating democracy and constitutionalism while ensuring peace and stability for the overall economic prosperity of our peoples. Through our multifaceted and people-centred development strategies, we are lifting more of our people out of poverty into prosperity. We look forward to this exciting path with you and the countries as well as organisations you represent.”
President Mnangagwa, who is also the SADC Chairperson, reiterated the call for an immediate cease-fire in the eastern DRC, saying dialogue is key for stability in the region.
“On the peace and security challenges in our region, particularly in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe is playing its part through SADC, and East African Community initiatives, to find lasting peace in Eastern DRC. We continue to call for an immediate ceasefire and the cessation of hostilities as well as the pursuit of dialogue, as a panacea for sustainable peace and stability in the region. We once again appeal for the provision of humanitarian assistance to the displaced persons from the international community.”
Meanwhile, it was revealed during the engagements that Zimbabwe’s candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the term 2027-2028 has been endorsed by SADC and the African Union.
