Zimbabwe is set to host the Zimbabwe-Iran Trade and Investment Conference (ZITIC) this month, a significant step toward enhancing economic cooperation between the two nations.
The announcement was made during the commemoration of the 46th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution, underscoring the growing ties between Harare and Tehran.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1979, Zimbabwe and Iran have continued to strengthen their partnership. Over the years, their collaboration has expanded, particularly in the areas of trade and health. Under the National Development Strategy One (NDS1), economic diplomacy has been a key focus, leading to increased cooperation between the two countries.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Sheillah Chikomo, highlighted the importance of following up on commitments made during the ninth session of the Zimbabwe-Iran Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC).
She emphasized that the upcoming ZITIC conference would provide a platform to discuss strategies for deepening bilateral economic relations.
Additionally, she noted that the health sector had benefited from the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding covering pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, medical education, health tourism, and health system management.
Her words; “The convening of the Middle Review, the MTR, in a course to ensure that we follow through with the commitments made in the ninth session of the Zimbabwe-Iran Joint Commitment Commission on Cooperation, the JPCC. In that vein, we also look forward to the convening of the Zimbabwe-Iran Trade and Investment Conference, ZITIC, which will take place later this month, where we will deliberate on the strategies to deepen our bilateral economic cooperation. Cooperation in the health sector has been enhanced by the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding in the field of pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, medical education, health tourism, and health system management.”
Meanwhile, Iranian Charge d’Affaires, Mr. Hadi Taheri, acknowledged Zimbabwe’s support for Iran during its fight against colonialism and racial discrimination. He noted that diplomatic ties between the two countries were established soon after Zimbabwe’s independence, with the Iranian Embassy opening in Harare in 1980.
Noting further, Mr Taheri revealed that the relationship between Zimbabwe and Iran has evolved into a strategic alliance.
In addition to political and economic ties, cultural cooperation has been a key area of engagement. The Cultural Center of the Iranian Embassy has been instrumental in fostering academic relations, including offering scholarships to Zimbabwean students.
However, both nations have exchanged high-level visits over the years, and to date, nine joint economic commissions have taken place. More than 100 agreements and memorandums of understanding have been signed, reflecting the commitment of both governments to strengthening their partnership. Mr. Taheri also expressed gratitude to Zimbabwean officials for their dedication to enhancing bilateral relations.
A notable highlight of this relationship was the visit of the late Iranian President, Ebrahim Raisi, to Zimbabwe in 2023. The visit reaffirmed the strong ties between the two countries and resulted in the signing of additional agreements in health, education, and tradeunder the JPCC.
