Zim, Moza agree on transformative deals

Africa Moyo in MAPUTO, Mozambique

ZIMBABWE and Mozambique yesterday reviewed their multifaceted cooperation in fields such as energy, transport, mineral resources, trade, agriculture, health, education, small and medium enterprises, the youth and technology during their inaugural Bi-National Commission (BNC), President Mnangagwa said.

There were also calls for the immediate establishment of a dry port facility in Beira, modernisation of the oil pipeline, as well as establishment of a one-stop-border post at Forbes-Machipanda to ensure the seamless movement of goods and people between the two countries.

During the BNC, Zimbabwe and Mozambique signed three memoranda of understanding (MoUs) on Women Empowerment and Gender Equality; Youth Development; and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

In his address at the signing ceremony, President Mnangagwa said the discussions were warm, productive and reflective of the deep solidarity and excellent historic relations that unite the two countries and peoples.

“Our two governments reviewed the excellent multi-faceted cooperation between us, including in sectors such as energy, transport, mineral resources, trade, agriculture, health, education, small and medium enterprises, youth and technology,” said President Mnangagwa.

“We resolved to accelerate implementation of agreed decisions for the mutual benefit of our peoples. Youth and women empowerment were highlighted as important components and yardsticks of economic growth and sustainable development.”

The discussions focused on measures to enhance efficiency in the movement of petroleum products from the Beira Port.

A decision to establish a dry port facility at the Beira Port was made to further enhance use of the Beira Development Corridor.

The dry port, President Mnangagwa said, will not only benefit two countries but the Southern African region as well.

Zimbabwe also expressed appreciation for the support it continues to receive from Mozambique in the energy and fuel sectors.

To facilitate trade, Harare and Maputo agreed to eliminate tariff and non-tariff barriers under regional (SADC) and continental (AfCFTA) frameworks.