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Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to multilateralism, sovereign equality, international law and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Mnangagwa made the commitment while delivering Zimbabwe’s national statement at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
He hailed the UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, who is attending his final general debate as UN chief.
“Zimbabwe also pays tribute to Mr Antonio Guterres in his final general debate as Secretary-General. We commend his defense of multilateralism as well as efforts to advance dialogue for conflict prevention and resolution, sustainable development and the pact for the future,” he said.
“We meet during a pivotal moment when the world is facing numerous interconnected and complex crises.
“Conflicts are spreading, climate shocks are intensifying, and technology is advancing faster than the rules that govern it. As the current crop of leaders, it should concern us that today, somewhere, a child is born into war, a family is displaced by conflict, a farmer loses another harvest.”
The President reiterated Zimbabwe’s foreign policy of being a “Friend to All and Enemy to None,” while calling for preventive diplomacy, respect for territorial integrity and stronger cooperation among nations.
He also emphasised Zimbabwe’s commitment to advancing Africa’s priorities, including the Silencing the Guns Agenda and greater African representation in global institutions.
Mnangagwa called for reforms to the international financial architecture to make it more responsive to developing countries’ needs.
On the economy, the President noted Zimbabwe’s reserves of more than 40 critical and rare earth minerals, saying the country was seeking to retain greater value from its mineral resources through local beneficiation and regional value chains.
He said critical minerals, value addition and beneficiation would remain important drivers of inclusive economic growth.
Mnangagwa also cited progress under Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030, including efforts to strengthen links between mining and agriculture, expand manufacturing, promote rural industrialisation and improve food and nutrition security.
He said the government was also working to create greater economic opportunities for women and young people.
The President further reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s “Open for Business” policy, saying the country was seeking productive investment, stronger trade relations and mutually beneficial economic partnerships.
He also noted Zimbabwe’s growing focus on technology, innovation and artificial intelligence.
According to Mnangagwa, the country’s National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026–2030 promotes human-centred, ethical and responsible innovation.
Zimbabwe is also preparing to take up a seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.
Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe is ready to serve with balance and integrity, defend the sovereign equality of states, advance Africa’s priorities and work constructively with other UN member states.
