Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. ZIMBABWE officially launched its ambitious bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the period 2027-28 in a significant move widely viewed as an attempt to punch above its weight, considering the challenges it has faced on the global stage.
The move has been endorsed by Russia, India, Cuba and the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) as the country bids to grow its geopolitical relevance.
Speaking during the official launch of Zimbabwe’s candidacy for non-permanent membership of the UN Security Council, President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday said since joining the United Nations in 1980, the country had been a steadfast advocate of peace, stability and the sovereign equality of nations.
“Our post-independence history is testament of our commitment to upholding principles, purposes and values enshrined in the United Nations Charter as well as the basic tenets of a rules-based international governance architecture,” he said.
“Our engagement with other nations has withstood triumphs and challenges. Zimbabwe remains a peace-loving nation, a defender of sovereignty and a champion of justice, fairness and prosperity for all.”
Zimbabwe served on the UN Security Council from the 1983 to 1984 and 1991 to 1992, with Mnangagwa saying this demonstrated the country’s active contribution to fostering international peace and security, conflict resolution and constructive international engagement.
“Our diplomatic legacy speaks for itself. Zimbabwe has played a meaningful role in peacekeeping missions across Africa and beyond, including in Angola, Somalia, East Timor, Sierra Leone, Kosovo, Liberia, Sudan, South Sudan, Abyei and Darfur,” he said.
“These contributions underscore our experience, dedication and ability to add value to the work of the Security Council. As an independent and sovereign nation, Zimbabwe is, therefore, stepping forward to bid for a seat at this esteemed body.
“We are amplifying our long-standing belief in the power of multi-lateralism to resolve conflicts, promote justice and realise development that leaves no country or region behind.”
He added: “The bid for this seat is not solely for Zimbabwe; it is for Africa, the developing world and all nations that desire peace, justice and equality for the benefit of both present and future generations.”
Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe’s term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council would focus on promoting global peace and security, silencing the guns and combating terrorism and co-operation and complementarity between the UN Security Council and regional economic communities.
The focus also includes women, youth, peace and security, where Zimbabwe aims to promote the role of women and the youth in the peace and security agenda.
“Zimbabwe’s commitment to peace is unshakable. We recognise that peace is the cornerstone of sustainable socio-economic development and stand ready to contribute our experience and leadership to the mission of the Security Council,” Mnangagwa said.
“As we embark on this important journey to joining the UN Security Council, I appeal to all UN member States to support Zimbabwe’s candidature.
“A vote for Zimbabwe is a vote for peace, multilateral co-operation and a more inclusive global order.”
Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe pledged to use the opportunity to champion Africa’s security priorities as outlined in Agenda 2063 and Africa’s commitment to “silencing the guns”.
“Equally, the voices of the Global South towards reforms in the global peace and security architecture will be amplified,” he said.
“The current state of global international relations deserves peaceful solutions.
“Our country, is ready to take pride of place as a non-permanent member in the UN Security Council for the period 2027-28.”
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