Harare,  (New Ziana) – Zimbabwean ambassadors-designate to the United States, South Africa, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Cuba on Monday bade farewell to President Emmerson Mnangagwa at the State House.

Ambassador-designate Lovemore Mazemo will take over as the top Zimbabwean diplomat to South Africa, David Hamadziripi will be representing the country in the United States, Patrick Mutasa is heading to Cuba, while Isaac Moyo will be based in the UAE.

The four envoys are being deployed at a time when Zimbabwe is pursuing the engagement and re-engagement policy on the diplomatic front.

Addressing the media soon after the courtesy calls, the ambassadors-designate said they will work hard as Zimbabwean representatives on the foreign missions.

Hamadziripi said he will collaborate with the US government to expand economic opportunities and improve cooperation between the two countries.

“It is an honour for me to serve as Zimbabwe’s ambassador to the USA. There are several economic opportunities available in Zimbabwe, and during my tenure, I will persuade investors from the USA to seriously consider investing in Zimbabwe and forge business linkages,” he said.

Mutasa, who will head the foreign mission in Cuba, said he will work with authorities in that country to strengthen the existing collaboration in the health and education sectors.

“The relationship between Zimbabwe and Cuba is one of brotherhood. We stand in solidarity and defend each other since both our countries have been affected by economic sanctions. President Mnangagwa has been against the United States of America’s decision to reinstate Cuba on the list of state-sponsors of terrorism and continue with the blockade that has been in place since 1962. That stance is an indication that we stand with each other. I will push for strong ties in the health and education sectors of our two countries,” he said.

Ambassador-designate Moyo said his mission will be to push for both nations to continue capitalising on their existing cordial relationship.

“Zimbabwe remains one of the UAE’s largest trading partners, and the strengthening of collaboration between the two countries should be pursued. During my term, I will ensure that many Zimbabwean public entities and private companies explore partnerships that result in mutual development in key economic areas such as clean energy, technology, mining, tourism, and health, among others,” he said.

New Ziana