Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, has held talks with his Zambian counterpart, Mulambo Haimbe, to strengthen bilateral relations, expand cross-border trade and improve transport and customs coordination ahead of the 25th COMESA Heads of State and Government Summit in Harare.
The meeting took place at the Munhumutapa Offices, yesterday evening, with the two ministers discussing areas of mutual interest as Zimbabwe prepares to assume the chairmanship of the regional trading bloc.
He emphasised the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and Zambia, built on historical ties, shared interests and cooperation in regional affairs.
“Zimbabwe and Zambia share a deep historical relationship that goes beyond our geographical proximity. Our two countries have a longstanding brotherhood that must continue to translate into practical cooperation that benefits our people,” Murwira said.
He said the two governments needed to build on their diplomatic relations by strengthening economic cooperation and addressing barriers that could affect the movement of goods and people across their borders.
“We must ensure that the relationship between our countries is reflected in increased trade, improved transport connectivity and efficient customs procedures. Our cooperation should create opportunities for businesses and make it easier for our people to participate in regional economic activities,” he said.
Murwira said Zimbabwe’s engagement with Zambia was consistent with the Government’s “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” policy, which seeks to promote investment, trade and partnerships with regional and international counterparts.
“Regional integration must be supported by practical measures that allow businesses to operate efficiently across borders. By improving infrastructure and harmonising customs processes, we can strengthen trade and unlock opportunities within the COMESA market,” he said.
The ministers also discussed transport infrastructure and customs logistics along the shared Zambezi corridor, with improved coordination expected to support the movement of goods and strengthen commercial links between the two countries.
The meeting came as Zimbabwe prepared to assume the COMESA chairmanship at the 25th Summit scheduled for Harare on Thursday, providing an opportunity to advance regional trade and economic cooperation.
