Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has arrived in Moscow ahead of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations set for this Friday.
President Mnangagwa, who is accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International, Trade Professor Amon Murwira, Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube and senior government officials, was received at the Vnukovo International Airport by Russia’s Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs responsible for Africa and the Middle East, Mikhail Borgdanov, Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Russia His Excellence, Mark Grey Marongwe and embassy officials.
The President will join 30 other heads of state and government in celebrating Russia’s Victory Day slated for this Friday in Moscow.
Victory Day is a major Russian holiday commemorating the country’s victory in the Second World War, with the event being marked by grand military parades and cultural displays.
President Mnangagwa’s visit cements Zimbabwe’s ties with Russia, particularly in health, mining and agriculture.
Russian mining giant, Alrosa, is actioning a joint venture with the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company to extract the precious stones.
Russia has also provided Zimbabwe with air ambulances which are offering emergency medical services and saving lives across the country.
To enhance its trade relations with Russia, Zimbabwe boasts of opportunities in high-demand sectors, including citrus fruits, berries, tea, edible legumes and oil seeds, where Russia has shown strong import activity from Africa.
Zimbabwe’s ability to expand its export base to Russia could help reduce its trade deficit, leveraging its agricultural strengths and targeting Russia’s need for food and raw materials.
Russia remains a dominant global exporter, with energy, minerals, and industrial products leading its trade portfolio.
Strengthening trade ties could benefit both economies, offering Zimbabwe market access and Russia diversified supply chains.
