Mevlüt Cavusoglu’s visit deepens bilateral relations between Turkey and Zimbabwe

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H.E. Mevlüt Cavusoglu, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Turkey’s visit to Zimbabwe signalled the deepening bilateral relations between the two countries.

Addressing journalists after meeting with Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, who is the Acting President, and a delegation led by Ambassador Fredrick Shava, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and other key government officials, HE Cavusoglu said his visit was mainly to increase bilateral trade between Zimbabwe and Turkey.

“One of the key purposes of my visit is to increase economic cooperation between the two countries. We have signed MOUs to strengthen the legal basis of our relationship. We will see more Turkish companies investing in Zimbabwe. We will strengthen all aspects of relations in the areas of education, infrastructure development, and agriculture, among others. The Turkish Airline will embark on flights to Harare and Victoria Falls,” HE Cavusoglu said

Turkey has been awarding Zimbabwean students educational scholarships. The two countries agreed to work closely to foster relations. This is the first time the foreign affairs minister of Turkey is visiting Zimbabwe, in a move demonstrating the success of the Zimbabwean government’s re-engagement drive.

Ambassador Shava reiterated the Zimbabwean Second Republic’s commitment to deepening economic cooperation with Turkey.

“This is an era for economic diplomacy. We will be working with Turkey with infrastructure investment one of the key areas we are targeting. I am glad that the Turkish private sector players are willing to come and invest in Zimbabwe. Some of the representatives of the companies are in the Turkish Foreign Minister’s delegation. They will work on the development of conference facilities and hotels, as well as sports facilities like the National Sports Stadium,” Ambassador Shava said.

Turkey has existed for 100 years as an independent country and Zimbabwe is set to benefit more from its experience. HE Cavusoglu reiterated his country’s readiness to support Zimbabwean businesses. Most trade happens between private companies. Turkey has been importing tobacco, lithium, and diamond among other products from Zimbabwe. Turkey is good in the textiles and food industries. It will partner with Zimbabwe to increase agriculture growth and productivity, as well as boost tourism and renewable energy sectors through joint ventures.
Turkey has promised to support Zimbabwean candidacy for UN Security Council.