Zim, Belarus ties reach another level

RELATIONS between Zimbabwe and Belarus are set to enter a new high this week, when the two countries convene for the high-level Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) that seeks to enhance fulfilment of common developmental aspirations.

The inaugural JPCC, which commences tomorrow in Harare, is expected to operationalise modalities for enhanced cooperation in areas such as agriculture, mining, trade, investment, tourism and transport.

In a communique, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade spokesperson Mr Michael Mukura said the JPCC is a follow-up to Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko’s historic State visit to Zimbabwe in January last year.

“The operationalisation of the JPCC is a culmination of a memorandum of understanding that was signed during that State visit.

“The JPCC between Zimbabwe and Belarus will afford the two countries an opportunity to establish bilateral cooperation commitments, as well as explore ways of broadening the scope of collaboration between the two countries.

“Zimbabwe and Belarus enjoy strong bonds of friendship and excellent bilateral relations that are founded on shared historical and socio-economic ties.

“The two countries established diplomatic ties on 16 April 1992”

Belarus’ Foreign Affairs Minister Sergei Aleinik will lead the country’s delegation, comprising top government officials.

“The JPCC will become the key bilateral mechanism that facilitates cooperation between Zimbabwe and Belarus in areas such as agriculture; mining; trade and investment; tourism and transport, among others,” said Mr Mukura.