President Mnangagwa Strengthens Zimbabwe-China relations Ahead of FOCAC 2024

by | Sep 2, 2024 | International, Latest | 0 comments

Mako Jerera

His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is currently in China, engaged in a series of high-level business and diplomatic activities, ahead of a State Visit and participation in the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) 2024.

Upon his arrival in Changsha City, Hunan Province, the President was warmly received by the province’s Vice Governor, Mr. Jiang Difei.

President Mnangagwa toured several significant sites, including Mao Zedong Square, where he laid flower baskets at the bronze statue of Mao Zedong, the founder of the Chinese Communist Party, in a gesture of respect and solidarity.

The President also visited the Sany Group factory, a global leader in the production of heavy construction machinery, highlighting Zimbabwe’s interest in fostering industrial and technological partnerships. Additionally, President Mnangagwa explored Lutang village in Hunan Province to gain insights into their rural modernization projects, focusing on efficient land-use practices that could benefit Zimbabwe.

President Mnangagwa further strengthened diplomatic relations by meeting with the Chinese Communist Party Committee Secretary for Hunan Province, Shen Xiaoming, and the party leadership in Jiangsu, led by Secretary General Xin Changxing. These meetings are crucial for deepening relations between Zimbabwe and China, particularly in the context of ongoing economic and infrastructural collaborations.

The President’s itinerary also included a visit to the Nanjing Military School, where he trained in the early 1960s as one of the first Zimbabwean freedom fighters to receive military education in China. This visit underscored the historical bonds between the two nations.

In Nanjing, President Mnangagwa toured the NARI Group Corporation, China’s largest supplier of electric power equipment.
The visit highlighted opportunities for collaboration in industrial automation and energy solutions, aligning with Zimbabwe’s development goals.

These engagements reflect President Mnangagwa’s commitment to strengthening Zimbabwe-China relations, paving the way for future cooperation in various sectors as both countries prepare for FOCAC 2024.