The President of Zimbabwe, Emmerson Mnangagwa, has expressed his desire to convene a Joint Permanent Commission and Joint Business Forum between Uganda and Zimbabwe to further solidify cooperation.
President Mnangagwa made that statement while officially receiving the credentials of Ambassador Paul Amoru, Uganda’s new High Commissioner to Zimbabwe, on Wednesday, March 13, 2024, at State House in Harare.
“Both President Museveni and I share a mutual need to activate the Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) and the establishment of a Joint Business Forum, a project aiming at exploring new areas of cooperation and enhancing bilateral trade,” Mnangagwa said.
According to Mnangagwa, the long-overdue cooperation will present opportunities to deepen bilateral engagements and explore new avenues of collaboration.
Uganda and Zimbabwe further expressed a keen interest in further collaboration across various sectors, including mining, tourism, agriculture, and education, aimed at elevating the living standards of their people and fostering economic development.
During his speech, President Mnangagwa also recognised Uganda’s support in advocating for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe by the United States Treasury Department.
“I acknowledge the significance of Uganda’s support, particularly in advocating for the lifting of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe, showcasing unity in regional and international advocacy,” he said.
President Mnangagwa also lauded the previous High Commissioner, Amb. Barbra Nekesa Oundo, for her outstanding performance and recognised the positive impact of past high-level visits between the two countries.
Additionally, he thanked President Museveni for continuously promoting peace, security, and stability in the region.
During his presentation of credentials, Amoru conveyed regards from President Yoweri Kaguta Museveni, emphasising the solid foundation of excellent relational dynamics that exists between Uganda and Zimbabwe.
“This not only symbolises a continuing friendship between the two nations but also propels us into a future of increased collaboration and mutual development,” Amoru noted.
He appreciated President Munyagwa for his attendance at the NAM summit, saying it showed the spirit of Pan-Africanism.
“I appreciate President Mnangagwa’s participation in the 19th Non-Aligned Movement Summit and the 3rd South Summit of the Group of 77 + China, held in Uganda this January. The visit underscored a shared vision towards Pan-Africanism and deepened the historical bonds forged by common interests and mutual respect,” he added.
Ambassador Amoru also pledged to strengthen the ties between the two countries as he began his duty.