Egypt has expressed readiness to deepen cooperation with Zimbabwe as Harare prepares to assume the chairmanship of the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) later this year.
The commitment was made by Egyptian Ambassador Maha Kamel after she paid a courtesy call on Vice President Constantino Chiwenga in Harare yesterday.
Ambassador Kamel said Egypt is eager to work closely with Zimbabwe in advancing shared priorities within the regional bloc, particularly as the country prepares to take over COMESA leadership in October.
“It was a very important and informative meeting. We discussed bilateral relations, historical ties between our two nations, and areas of potential cooperation,” she said.
Zimbabwe’s upcoming role as COMESA chair will place it at the centre of shaping regional trade policy, coordinating member states, and driving integration efforts across Eastern and Southern Africa. The position is expected to strengthen efforts to boost intra-regional trade, industrialisation, infrastructure development and economic resilience.
Ambassador Kamel noted that COMESA plays a key role in enabling private sector growth and cross-border trade, adding that Egypt is committed to supporting Zimbabwe’s leadership.
“We look forward to working with the Zimbabwean Government in this important mission, and we are sure it is going to be successful,” she said.
Zimbabwe and Egypt already enjoy longstanding bilateral relations rooted in trade, political cooperation and historical solidarity dating back to the liberation struggle era. Analysts say this foundation positions the two countries for deeper collaboration within regional frameworks.
Ambassador Kamel said discussions with the Vice President also covered ongoing and future cooperation in key sectors such as health, the economy and investment.
“The economic sector, health sector, political area as well. We discussed several bilateral projects currently underway,” she said.
She also revealed that Egypt will host the Africa Health Expo in July, inviting Zimbabwean pharmaceutical companies to participate.
“This will be an important opportunity to further cooperation, not only in pharmaceuticals but also in medical devices, hospital furniture and vaccines, both human and veterinary,” she added.
The engagement is seen as part of broader efforts to strengthen Harare–Cairo relations while positioning Zimbabwe for a more influential role in regional economic integration under COMESA.
