Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Frederick Shava, and Rwanda’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Vincent Biruta, expressed their commitment to strengthening trade and economic cooperation between the two countries during the second session of the Zimbabwe-Rwanda Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation in Harare on May 16.
Minister Shava emphasized the need to address challenges hindering the deepening and expansion of economic cooperation, stating, “The level of economic exchanges between our two countries remains incommensurate with our potential.”
He stressed the importance of implementing the agreements already in place and urged both countries to work diligently to ensure their full realization.
Minister Biruta echoed the urgency to enhance trade and economic cooperation, highlighting the existing collaboration in sectors such as energy, tourism, and infrastructure development.
He emphasized the potential for joint ventures and partnerships in these areas to significantly boost the economies of both countries, generate employment opportunities, and improve livelihoods.
Both ministers acknowledged the robust political relations between Rwanda and Zimbabwe, emphasizing their shared commitment to democracy, good governance, and the rule of law.
They commended the cooperation agreements in the fields of good governance, justice, conflict resolution, and peacebuilding.
Zimbabwe’s support for Rwanda’s efforts towards sustainable peace and security on the international stage was also recognized.
The two countries were expected to sign additional memoranda of understanding in various fields, including gender empowerment, affordable housing, education, and science and technology development, further strengthening bilateral relations.
Minister Shava reflected on the achievements since the establishment of the Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation, highlighting the pragmatic and collaborative approach taken.
The commission’s three clusters—political, diplomatic, defense and security; economic; and social affairs—have all contributed to the political and socio-economic development of both countries.
Progress in agriculture, animal resources, energy, and education exchanges was specifically mentioned.
Both ministers emphasized the need to remain proactive and not become complacent in implementing the agreements under the Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation.
They aimed to generate concrete action plans that would enhance the scope and depth of bilateral cooperation.
The commitment expressed by Rwanda and Zimbabwe demonstrates their dedication to furthering trade and economic ties, building on the positive relations between the two countries.
