Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. BULAWAYO, Apr.28 (NewsDayLive) – Trade between Zimbabwe and Mozambique should now play a leading role in shaping and informing the relationship between the two countries, a top government official has said.
Addressing guests at the just ended Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo, Industry and Commerce minister Nqobizitha Ndhlovu said the centuries-old trading relations between the two neighbouring countries should be scaled up.
“Mozambique is one of Zimbabwe’s key trading partners,” he said.
“Trade facilitation between the two nations go back centuries where during the Munhumutapa Kingdom, the Beira-Maputo corridors served as key trade networks for gold, ivory, and other commodities, with the coastal ports of Mozambique playing a pivotal role.
“The trade along these corridors contributed to the development of vibrant marketplaces, where merchants from various regions converged to exchange products and ideas.
“The strategic location of the Beira-Maputo corridors allowed for the efficient transportation of goods, enhancing the economic ties between the Munhumutapa Kingdom and Mozambique.”
The minister hailed Mozambican leader for officially opening this year’s trade fair, saying the move would go a long way in boosting infrastructure development and trade between the two countries.
“Your Excellencies, Zimbabwe International Trade Fair in Bulawayo, Industry and Commerce minister Nqobizitha Ndhlovu.
“The modernisation of the Beira Port and railway networks stand to benefit both nations, ensuring smoother movement of goods and people.I wish to thank and applaud your leadership as our Heads of State and government for ensuring there is greater cooperation in the field of security where we have made progress in tackling smuggling and other illicit movement of goods that had become rampant,” Ndhlovu said.
The minister highlighted the ZITF as a platform for tightening economic affairs for both countries.
“This trade fair is more than just an event but a springboard for strengthening our economic collaboration, in particular to seriously consider cooperation in industrialising our two nations,” he said.
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