The Herald
Herald Reporter
26 June 2009
China is delighted with the establishment of an inclusive Government in Zimbabwe and described its operation to date as successful.
Speaking during his farewell luncheon, Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Yuan Nansheng said Zimbabwe was now poised for greater economic growth which might surpass other African countries that were suffering from the effects of global economic recession.
“I deeply feel that the momentum of the reconciliation and co-operation between three main political parties of Zimbabwe was further strengthened and the Zimbabwean situation is developing towards a good direction,” said Ambassador Yuan who has been on a tour of duty in Zimbabwe for two and half years.
“It’s an encouraging phenomenon to me that, at the time I arrived here, most African countries kept a rapid growth rate except Zimbabwe. Now at the time I am leaving, almost all African countries are affected deeply in the context of global financial crisis while Zimbabwe owns a rising trend in economy.”
He expressed hope that Zanu-PF and the two MDC formations would continue working together, until Zimbabweans overcome the current difficulties and bring economic stability.
The Chinese embassy last August initiated an HIV and Aids launch by the Chinese community in Zimbabwe called “Care Action for the HIV/Aids infected, Orphans and the Physically Challenged,” to assist poor people in the country.
“Today, thousands of Chinese people and companies have joined their hands in supporting the Care Action at different levels,” said Ambassador Yuan who is heading to South America for another diplomatic stint.
“The total amount of cash donation itself has exceeded US$270 000 so far.”
Speaking at the same occasion, Acting Secretary for Foreign Affairs, Mr Godfrey Magwenzi hailed the relationship between Zimbabwe and China dating back to the liberation struggle.
He said China together with Russia demonstrated its unwavering support for Harare when it vetoed attempts by the United States and Britain to get the United Nations Security Council to impose sanctions on Zimbabwe.
Yesterday’s meeting was attended by Media, Information and Publicity, Minister Webster Shamu, Education, Sport, Arts and Culture Minister, David Coltart, Labour and Social Welfare Minister Paurina Mpariwa, Harare mayor, Mr Muchadeyi Masunda and senior Government officials.
Also in attendance were Zanu-PF secretary for external affairs, Mr Kumbirai Kangai and other senior party officials and members of the diplomatic community.