ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): Pakistan and Zimbabwe reaffirmed their mutual commitment to strengthening trade, investment, and regional cooperation during a reception held in Islamabad, commemorating the 45th Independence Day of the Republic of Zimbabwe. Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, graced the event as Chief Guest.
In his remarks, Minister Jam Kamal Khan congratulated the Government and people of Zimbabwe on behalf of Pakistan and acknowledged Zimbabwe’s progress in nation-building and regional integration through bodies such as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and COMESA. He emphasized the potential to deepen economic ties, especially in key sectors such as textiles, agro-processing, pharmaceuticals, and machinery.
He also highlighted Pakistan’s active outreach under its “Look Africa Policy,” citing successful initiatives like the Health, Engineering, and Mineral Show (HEMS), held in April 2025 with over 270 African delegates in attendance. The upcoming Pakistan–Africa Trade Development Conference (PATDC) and Single Country Exhibition (SCE), scheduled in Ethiopia from May 15 to 17, will further foster such cooperation.
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Pakistan, H.E. Titus Mehliswa Johnathan Abu Basutu, in his address, expressed deep appreciation for Pakistan’s friendship and support. He invited Pakistani investors to explore promising opportunities in Zimbabwe’s “G-Economy sectors”—namely agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure development.
He pointed out that Zimbabwe offers multiple international platforms to engage with its economy, including the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (April), the Mining, Engineering and Transport Expo (July), the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo (March and September), and the Maputo Africa Tour Show (August). These events often host high-level business conferences attended by Zimbabwe’s Vice President, Finance Minister, and Central Bank Governor, offering clarity on policy matters and incentives for foreign investment.
Ambassador Basutu also underscored Zimbabwe’s re-engagement policy under the leadership of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, aiming for peaceful, prosperous, and effective participation in global economic and political platforms. He reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to working closely with Pakistan, especially within the framework of South-South Cooperation.
The ceremony included national anthems, speeches, presentation of a commemorative gift to the Chief Guest, a cake-cutting ceremony, and a formal dinner attended by diplomats, government officials, and business leaders from both countries.
“Let today be a celebration of Zimbabwe’s independence, and also of the deepening friendship between our two nations,” said Minister Jam Kamal Khan in his closing remarks.
