Zimbabwe and China Deepen Parliamentary and Strategic Relations

Zimbabwe and China have reaffirmed their longstanding bilateral relations through high-level parliamentary dialogue held yesterday between Speaker of Parliament Advocate Jacob Mudenda and His Excellency Wang Huning, Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).

The meeting focused on enhancing strategic cooperation and institutional collaboration between the two nations’ legislative bodies. Both parties underscored the importance of deepening diplomatic and socio-economic ties that have spanned over four decades.

Chairman Wang Huning commended President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s 2024 state visit to China, calling it a landmark engagement that has solidified what he described as the “five-star ironclad” model of cooperation. He emphasized that the partnership extends beyond political alignment, with strong emphasis on infrastructure, energy, and agricultural development.

He also applauded the mutual support demonstrated by the two countries on global platforms, particularly on the “One China” policy and the shared advocacy for a multipolar international order.

In response, Advocate Mudenda acknowledged the historical solidarity between Zimbabwe and China, recalling China’s instrumental support during Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, including the training of freedom fighters. He highlighted flagship projects spearheaded with Chinese cooperation—such as the New Parliament Building, the Kariba South Hydropower Expansion, and Hwange Units 7 and 8—as critical milestones in bilateral development.

To further institutionalize the relationship, Advocate Mudenda proposed the establishment of a Zimbabwe-China Parliamentary Friendship Association. The initiative is expected to promote legislative exchange and policy collaboration, particularly in the creation of special economic zones and the implementation of business-enabling reforms.

The dialogue marks another significant step in reinforcing Zimbabwe-China relations as both countries continue to align on economic advancement and global cooperation.

By Witness A Phiri