Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi concluded his African tour on July 13 by signing 12 agreements with Zimbabwe to enhance bilateral relations between the two countries. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa warmly welcomed Raisi upon his arrival in Harare, referring to him as “my brother.” The visit attracted a large crowd, including members of Zimbabwe’s Muslim community, who gathered at the Robert Mugabe International Airport to greet the leaders. The agreements span various sectors, such as agriculture, energy, telecommunications, and manufacturing, aiming to boost cooperation and alleviate the international isolation faced by both nations due to United States sanctions.
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Zimbabwe’s Warm Reception for Iranian President
President Mnangagwa expressed his gratitude to President Raisi for demonstrating solidarity with Zimbabwe, harking back to Iran’s support during the country’s fight for independence against Britain. Hundreds of Zimbabweans, waving the flags of both nations, joined the welcoming ceremony at the airport, highlighting the significance of the visit and the warm relations between the two countries.
12 Agreements to Foster Collaboration
The signing of 12 agreements between Iran and Zimbabwe marks a major step in strengthening bilateral ties. Among the agreements, one outlines plans for a tractor manufacturing plant, which will be established through collaboration between an Iranian company, a local partner, and Zimbabwe. Other agreements cover cooperation in energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, as well as research, science, and technology projects. These agreements aim to facilitate mutual advances and expand economic opportunities for both nations.
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Iran’s African Diplomatic Push
President Raisi’s African tour, which included visits to Kenya and Uganda before Zimbabwe, signifies Iran’s efforts to garner diplomatic support and alleviate its international isolation. The Iranian leader’s visit to countries facing similar United States sanctions strengthens ties and opens up new avenues for economic and trade cooperation. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani referred to the tour as a “new turning point” that could bolster economic ties with African nations and emphasized the shared political views between Iran and the three African countries visited. The tour follows President Raisi’s recent visit to Latin American nations also under US sanctions: Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.
President Ebrahim Raisi’s visit to Zimbabwe and the signing of 12 agreements between the two countries mark a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral relations. The warm reception by President Mnangagwa and the enthusiasm displayed by Zimbabweans underscore the historical ties between Iran and Zimbabwe. As both nations face United States sanctions, this visit holds promise for economic cooperation and mutual advances. Iran’s diplomatic efforts in Africa and Latin America signify its resolve to broaden its international alliances and enhance trade partnerships beyond its traditional partners.
