Islamabad (Adnan Hameed): The Embassy of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Islamabad hosted a grand reception to commemorate the 45th anniversary of Zimbabwe’s independence. The event brought together dignitaries, diplomats, officials, and members of the diplomatic corps to celebrate the occasion.
Federal Minister Jam Kamal, attending as the Chief Guest, was welcomed by Zimbabwe’s Ambassador Titus M. J. Abu-Basutu, who expressed gratitude for Pakistan’s longstanding support. In his address, Ambassador Abu-Basutu highlighted Zimbabwe’s struggle for liberation and the pivotal international backing that led to independence on April 18, 1980. He underscored Pakistan’s moral and material contributions, referencing its documented role in the UN Special Committee on Decolonization.
The Ambassador also reflected on Zimbabwe’s national celebrations held under the theme “Zimbabwe @ 45; Devolve and Develop Together towards Vision 2030,” echoing President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s call for inclusive development through provincial festivities.
Speaking on diplomatic ties, Ambassador Abu-Basutu noted that Zimbabwe and Pakistan established relations in 1980, solidifying their partnership through embassies in each other’s capitals. He expressed pride in serving as Zimbabwe’s first resident Ambassador to Pakistan, emphasizing strong cooperation in defence, education, culture, and sports. He also recognized the contribution of the late Pakistani Air Marshal Azim Doudpota in shaping Zimbabwe’s Air Force and lauded cricketer Sikandar Raza, a Lahore-born player who now captains Zimbabwe’s national team.
Education remained a key topic of discussion, with the Ambassador acknowledging Pakistan’s role in providing scholarships under the Pakistan Technical Assistance Programme (PTAP), benefiting Zimbabwean students in medical and engineering fields. He highlighted the ongoing visit of a Zimbabwean delegation exploring educational collaboration under the “Look Africa, Engage Africa” initiative.
Looking ahead, Ambassador Abu-Basutu called for deeper economic engagement, pointing out the need to enhance trade volumes and inviting Pakistani investors to explore business opportunities in Zimbabwe’s agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and infrastructure sectors. He described Zimbabwe as “a world of wonders” and encouraged guests to visit renowned destinations such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, the Nyangani mountains, and the historic Great Zimbabwe ruins.
On foreign relations, he reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s dedication to peaceful global engagement through mechanisms like South-South cooperation, the Non-Aligned Movement, and the Group of 77 and China. He also congratulated Pakistan on securing a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for 2025–2026 and assured Zimbabwe’s support.
The celebrations concluded with a symbolic cake-cutting ceremony led by Ambassador Abu-Basutu, joined by the Chief Guest and African ambassadors, underscoring solidarity and a commitment to enduring friendship between Zimbabwe and Pakistan. The event left attendees with a strong message: “Long Live Zimbabwe, and Long Live Zimbabwe-Pakistan fraternal relations.”