BEIJING – China and Zimbabwe on Thursday vowed to take their already close ties to a higher level, with Chinese President Xi Jinping proposing the establishment of an “all-weather China-Zimbabwe community with a shared future” during talks with President Emmerson Mnangagwa in Beijing.
Xi welcomed Mnangagwa, who was among invited leaders attending events marking the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world anti-fascist war. He praised the enduring friendship between the two countries, which this year celebrates its 45th anniversary.
“Our five-star iron-clad friendship has been growing ever deeper. I propose that we elevate this relationship to an all-weather China-Zimbabwe community with a shared future, to set a prime example of solidarity and co-ordination between China and Africa and in the Global South,” Xi said.
Mnangagwa, in his remarks, hailed the commemorations as a powerful reminder of China’s sacrifices and resilience during World War II. He described Wednesday’s military parade in Beijing as “something out of this world” and a “grand display of military might, precision and patriotism.”
“The successful event was a grand display of military might, precision and patriotism. We welcome and fully concur with your call, for nations to never forget the history and tragedies of war, as well as the importance of upholding the principle of indivisible security for all,” Mnangagwa said.
The Zimbabwean leader also welcomed Xi’s proposal to deepen ties, noting that relations between Harare and Beijing had matured over four decades of diplomatic cooperation.
“Our friendship and partnership has stood the test of time. Zimbabwe therefore welcomes the deepening and elevation of our relations from the previous comprehensive strategic partnership of cooperation to an ‘all-weather Zimbabwe-China community with a shared future’,” Mnangagwa said.
Zimbabwe and China established diplomatic ties in 1980, shortly after the southern African nation’s independence. Beijing has since been a key ally and economic partner, backing infrastructure development and investments in mining, agriculture and energy.
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