International connections

Zimbabwe’s foreign links

China

The largest investor in Zimbabwe and a significant trading partner, as Beijing seeks raw materials to fuel economic growth. China announced plans to invest up to £1.5 billion to revive operations at Zimbabwe Iron and Steel Company (ZISCO), which closed in 2008.

South African firms have invested more than £440m in

Zimbabwe’s oil, coal and gas industries. South Africa is also home to an estimated two million Zimbabweans – the largest foreign population in the country.

UK Britain provides aid for 360,000 people living in areas of Zimbabwe affected by drought.

African Union

The AU received a $1m donation from Mugabe, a former chairman, in July.