Political Will, Economic Growth: United Front of Zimbabwe and Mozambique at Trade Fair

By Staff Reporter

Bulawayo – The Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) is in the limelight today as His Excellency President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique officially opens the blue chip event’s 65th edition. Its much-awaited turn-up, with a significant business delegation, is a testament to enhanced regional harmony and developmental thinking between Zimbabwe and its brother SADC country, the regional eastern neighbor, and heralds an effervescent beginning to the annual showcase.

The setting was set for the historic occasion of yesterday night at a private dinner organized by President Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa to host President Chapo. President Mnangagwa greeted President Chapo to the banquet warmly, declaring President Chapo’s visit “demonstrates our common determination to further deepen the outstanding relations between our sisterly Republics.” He also proceeded to extend President Chapo warm congratulations on his recent inauguration, and observed the historical significance of the age-old bond of the two countries on the basis of their united anti colonial struggle.

President Mnangagwa reminded Mozambique eloquently of the nation’s unshakeable solidarity with Zimbabwe during the nation’s liberation struggle, continuing by adding that the extensive record of solidarity provides sound reasons for the increasing cooperation being seen today. He cited the shared desire for economic growth, pointing out the high visibility of the Mozambican business delegation at ZITF as well as their active participation in business-to-business relations. This energetic participation is proof of a shared determination to significantly increase investment and commerce in high-priority sectors such as agriculture, energy, transport, tourism, manufacturing, and mining. The makeup of the Mozambican delegates is also proof of the shared aspiration for industrialization and modernization.

To the future, President Mnangagwa reinforced the strategic nature of cooperative advancement infrastructure projects such as, most specifically, the visionary Ponta Techobanine Project possessing the size of potential to drive economic advancement for the two nations. He further emphasized even greater harmony in so pivotal an aspect as conservation of the environment and climatic resiliency, one which runs against their affection for sustainable development.

In the aftermath of Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening relations under the leadership of President Chapo, President Mnangagwa undertook unwavering cooperation between the two parties, FRELIMO and ZANU-PF, at national and regional, international levels, in seeking the common interests within collective agendas, like attaining Sustainable Development Goals. He undertook Mozambique’s complete backing for Zimbabwe as a true friend towards attaining common prosperity.

President Chapo’s presidential launch today must more formally close such an endeavor, and a platform to agree on an identical vision of direction for future in Zimbabwe-Mozambique relations. His address must give broad sections of co-operation and making-benefit, setting the tone for friendly dialogue and communication during the ZITF.

With today’s official opening of the 65th Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, Mozambique’s physical presence and active engagement attest to living ties which will close gaps, unlock economic potential, and give birth to a broader future for the two countries. The Chapo inauguration as President will be a significant milestone on this path of co-development.