KEY POINTS
- Zimbabwe’s GDP has grown from $16 billion to over $50 billion.
- Efforts to rejoin the Commonwealth and strengthen BRICS ties are ongoing.
- National Development Strategy One promotes foreign direct investment.
Zimbabwe’s foreign policy, developed under the Second Republic, has played a major role in the country’s economic transformation over the past six years.
The government’s focus on engagement, re-engagement, and fostering global partnerships has not only improved international relations but has also spurred significant economic growth.
Speaking about the policy’s impact, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, highlighted how these diplomatic efforts have propelled Zimbabwe’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) from $16 billion to over $50 billion since President Emmerson Mnangagwa assumed office.
“We pursue diplomacy for Zimbabwe’s economic progress and for the benefit of the global community that partners with us. This approach has driven our GDP growth and strengthened our position within the global community of nations,” Murwira said.
Strategic partnerships elevate Zimbabwe’s global presence
A key aspect of Zimbabwe’s foreign policy is its integration into international organizations and fostering bilateral partnerships.
The country is currently working towards rejoining the Commonwealth and has been strengthening ties with BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).
According to New Zimbabwe, Professor Murwira also announced that Zimbabwe will host the Nordic-Africa Foreign Ministers Meeting in Victoria Falls next year, a move that underscores its growing prominence on the global stage.
“Our pursuit of engagement and re-engagement has positioned Zimbabwe as an active player in international forums,” he said. “These efforts are in line with President Mnangagwa’s stable and consistent policy framework, which prioritizes clarity and inclusivity.”
Economic progress rooted in foreign policy initiatives
Zimbabwe’s foreign policy is closely aligned with its National Development Strategy One (NDS1), which emphasizes creating a conducive environment for foreign direct investment.
The country’s “Open for Business” philosophy has attracted investors from various sectors, contributing to its economic revival.
According to Murwira, these policies are grounded in constitutional principles and are designed to ensure stability and inclusivity.
“Our foreign policy reflects our commitment to creating a sustainable and inclusive developmental trajectory,” he added.
