By Kelvin Wilson Kasiwulaya
At the 7th China International Import Expo in Shanghai, Zimbabwe’s Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Hon. Owen Ncube, delivered a key address on global economic cooperation, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s dedication to inclusive development.
Invited by the Global Trade Development Federation, Ncube highlighted Zimbabwe’s alignment with the vision of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, emphasizing the country’s commitment to the principle of “leaving no one and no place behind.”
Ncube praised China’s leadership, particularly President Xi Jinping’s commitment to South-South Cooperation, noting that Zimbabwe’s relationship with China dates back to the liberation struggle.
He underscored the mutual respect and shared focus on development that characterizes Zimbabwe-China relations, further strengthened under the leadership of Presidents Mnangagwa and Xi.
Acknowledging the economic challenges Zimbabwe faces, particularly due to sanctions, Ncube pointed to significant progress made under the Second Republic.
He highlighted government policies aimed at modernizing and industrializing the economy, including efforts to attract both local and foreign investment.
As part of its re-engagement strategy, Zimbabwe is focused on achieving upper middle-income status by 2030.
Ncube also underscored Zimbabwe’s strategic partnership with China, particularly through its participation in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).
He emphasized that the two countries are poised to deepen cooperation in critical sectors, including economic development, skills transfer, and resource management.
In his address, Ncube outlined Zimbabwe’s abundant natural resources—such as gold, diamonds, lithium, and gas—as well as its fertile land and favorable climate, which present significant opportunities for growth.
He also encouraged investment in infrastructure projects, including roads, railways, and power generation, leveraging Zimbabwe’s strategic location in Southern Africa to serve as a gateway to the broader African market.
As a member of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Zimbabwe offers access to a market of over 1.2 billion people, with a combined GDP exceeding $3.4 trillion, making it an attractive destination for international trade and investment.