Source: Zim, Japan reaffirm bilateral relations – herald
Ivan Zhakata
Herald Correspondent
ZIMBABWE and Japan have reaffirmed their strong bilateral relations and commitment to deepen cooperation in trade, agriculture, technology and development.
Speaking at the celebration of the birthday of the Emperor of Japan in Harare yesterday, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira said the two countries shared a long-standing relationship built on mutual respect, cooperation and shared aspirations for peace and prosperity.
Since the establishment of diplomatic relations at Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, Prof Murwira said the partnership between the two nations has continued to grow.
“As we celebrate with you today, we also reflect on the enduring friendship between Zimbabwe and Japan,” he said.
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations at Zimbabwe’s independence in 1980, our two countries have built a partnership founded on the values of mutual respect, cooperation and shared aspirations for peace, development and prosperity.”
Prof Murwira said Zimbabwe’s engagement with the international community was guided by the Constitution and principles of peaceful coexistence.
“Zimbabwe’s conduct on the global stage is guided by clear constitutional and moral values.
“Our Constitution remains our compass in international engagement, particularly in pursuing national interests in peace and respecting international law,” he said.
The Minister said Zimbabwe’s foreign policy is guided by the principle of being a “friend to all and an enemy to none”.
“Zimbabwe does not pursue adversarial relationships”, he said.
“We pursue mutually respectful partnerships that lead to peaceful settlement of disputes and active participation in international organisations that advance the well-being of humanity.”
Guided by these principles, Zimbabwe has presented its candidature for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027-2028 term, with elections scheduled for June 3, 2026.
“Our objective is to sincerely contribute to international peace and security within the multilateral environment, and in this regard, we look forward to the support of Japan and other member states,” Minister Murwira said.
He said Zimbabwe continues to prioritise diplomacy through economic cooperation, trade and international interdependence as key drivers of peace and development.
Zimbabwe has been working closely with the Japan International Cooperation Agency in promoting climate-resilient agriculture and expanding the production of the New Rice for Africa (Nerica) crop across rural provinces.
Japan has also supported smallholder irrigation and market-oriented agricultural initiatives that recently enabled Zimbabwe to export sesame seeds to Japan.
Japan’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Nobutaka Maekawa, said his country valued its longstanding relationship with Zimbabwe and is committed to strengthening economic and development cooperation.
Ambassador Maekawa said relations between the two nations were further strengthened by high-level engagements last year, including visits by President Mnangagwa to Japan for major international events.
“These included the World Expo 2025 Osaka Kansai and the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development in Yokohama,” he said.
Ambassador Maekawa said Japan would continue supporting Zimbabwe’s development through infrastructure projects, agricultural assistance and technical cooperation.
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