By Aldridge Dzvene
HARARE, Zimbabwe is seeking to deepen economic, trade and diplomatic relations with Portugal, Canada and the United Kingdom following the presentation of credentials by the three countries’ ambassador-designates to His Excellency Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President and First Secretary of ZANU PF, at State House.
His Excellency Rui Monteiro, Ambassador-Designate of the Republic of Portugal (Second From Right)
The incoming diplomats are Mr Rui Monteiro of Portugal, Mr Jeffrey Senior of Canada and Ms Gillian Joanna Lever of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, whose presentation of Letters of Credence paves the way for them to formally assume their diplomatic duties in Zimbabwe.
Her Excellency Gillian Joanna Lever, Ambassador-Designate of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
The diplomatic engagements come as Zimbabwe and Portugal prepare to serve as non-permanent members of the United Nations Security Council for the 2027 to 2028 term, creating opportunities for cooperation on international peace, security and shared global priorities.
President Mnangagwa reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s commitment to the foreign policy principle of being a “Friend to all and enemy to none”, emphasising the importance of sustained engagement and re-engagement in strengthening international partnerships.
The approach is aimed at expanding bilateral cooperation and opening new opportunities for trade, investment and economic collaboration, as Zimbabwe continues to pursue partnerships that support national development.
The participation of Zimbabwe and Portugal on the UN Security Council is also expected to provide a platform for engagement on multilateral issues, with both countries set to contribute to deliberations on matters affecting international peace and security.
Relations with Canada and the United Kingdom similarly present opportunities for strengthening diplomatic engagement and exploring areas of mutual economic interest.
The presentation of credentials marks an important step in formalising the ambassadors’ diplomatic responsibilities and advancing cooperation between Zimbabwe and the three countries.
President Mnangagwa welcomed the incoming diplomats and expressed the country’s commitment to working with them towards stronger bilateral relations and a shared, prosperous future.
