Co-chaired by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, and Belarusian Minister of Foreign Affairs Maxim Ryzhenkov, the review covered key sectors including agriculture, education, mining, health, and trade. Belarus Deputy Prime Minister Victor Karankevich attended as the guest of honour, underlining the high-level commitment behind the relationship.
The discussions reflected a growing sense of urgency to turn diplomatic goodwill into practical outcomes. Both sides acknowledged steady progress in implementing agreements signed during the inaugural JPCC, but also emphasized the need to fast-track outstanding instruments—particularly those related to visa exemptions for diplomatic and service passport holders.
One of the major breakthroughs of the meeting was the reinforcement of agricultural cooperation, with the Second Sitting of the Joint Working Group on Agriculture agreeing on new areas of focus. This aligns with Zimbabwe’s broader push to modernize and mechanize its agriculture sector, while drawing on Belarusian expertise in agri-technology and inputs.
There was also strong emphasis on economic cooperation, with the two countries applauding the operationalization of the 2023 Agreement on the Avoidance of Double Taxation. The agreement is expected to promote cross-border investment by removing tax-related hurdles and increasing predictability for businesses operating in both markets.
Humanitarian assistance also featured prominently. Zimbabwe expressed gratitude for Belarus’ timely support in response to the El Niño-induced drought, after a direct appeal by President Mnangagwa. The gesture not only reflects growing trust but also positions Belarus as a responsive and reliable partner in times of need.
In addition to bilateral matters, the two countries used the platform to address broader geopolitical challenges. Both Zimbabwe and Belarus criticized unilateral Western sanctions, which they argue hinder economic development and disrupt global supply chains—particularly in agriculture. They called for greater cooperation among like-minded nations to promote a fairer and more inclusive global economic system.
Diplomatic support was also reaffirmed, with Belarus backing Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2027–2028. This reflects a maturing alliance that extends beyond trade and development into coordinated positions on key international platforms.
The Mid-Term Review concluded with an agreement for Belarus to host the Second Session of the JPCC in 2026. Meanwhile, attention now shifts to President Mnangagwa’s upcoming State Visit to Belarus in May, expected to provide political momentum to the partnership and consolidate the gains of the review process.
Overall, the MTR showcased the evolution of Zimbabwe-Belarus relations from general diplomacy to targeted cooperation. The tone of the meeting was pragmatic, forward-looking, and anchored in a shared vision of economic sovereignty and sustainable development. As both countries continue to pursue strategic alternatives in a shifting global landscape, their collaboration offers a blueprint for mutually beneficial South-South partnerships.
