Harare (New Ziana) – President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Friday commended relations between Zimbabwe and Russia saying they continue to blossom on the basis of mutual respect and understanding.

He was speaking after receiving the initial batch of 25 000 doses of Sputnik V Covid-19 vaccine donated by Russian mining giant Alrosa.

The company pledged to purchase 50 000 doses of vaccines for Zimbabwe.

President Mnangagwa commended Alrosa for the timely donation and said it attested to Russia’s commitment to enhance sustainable access to vaccines.

“Today’s ceremony (also) amplifies the time-tested and excellent relations that Zimbabwe and Russia have nurtured and continue to enjoy dating back to our struggle for independence. Our country cherishes the deep-rooted friendship, mutual support and cooperation that have been the hallmark of our consistent collaboration at bilateral and multilateral levels,” he said.

“In the context of our mutual commitment to diversify cooperation and re-energise economic relations, our two countries have in the recent past exchanged high level visits and signed numerous agreements memoranda and other vital legal instruments. It is pleasing that a notable number are being implemented.

“These agreements will further lay a strong foundation for strengthening partnership, cooperation and investments in mining, fertilizer production, risk insurance, environmental protection, nuclear energy development and cooperation in countering money laundering and the financing of terrorism.”

President Mnangagwa said additional scope existed for broader economic and technical cooperation in trade, tourism, critical skills and human and capital development.

“We are pleased with the footprints of Alrosa through various mining investments, other investors from the Russian Federation are most welcome to also explore the various investment opportunities Zimbabwe has to offer,” he said.
New Ziana