Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi concluded his African tour by signing 12 agreements with Zimbabwe to strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. Upon Raisi’s arrival in Harare, he was greeted by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who referred to him as “my brother.” The warm reception included a crowd of people waving Zimbabwean and Iranian flags, with many from Zimbabwe’s Muslim community present at the Robert Mugabe International Airport. Iran signs agreements with Zimbabwe as Raisi wraps up Africa tour
During their meeting, Mnangagwa expressed gratitude for Iran’s support during Zimbabwe’s fight for independence against Britain in the 1980s. He emphasized the strong bond between the two nations and the significance of Raisi’s visit as a demonstration of solidarity. The 12 agreements signed cover various sectors, including plans to establish a tractor manufacturing plant in Zimbabwe in collaboration with an Iranian company and a local partner. Additionally, cooperation in energy, agriculture, pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, as well as research, science, and technology projects were outlined.
Both Iran and Zimbabwe are currently subject to United States sanctions, making Raisi’s African tour a strategic move to strengthen diplomatic ties and alleviate their international isolation. Raisi highlighted the potential for mutual progress through collaboration with Zimbabwe and the African continent as a whole, emphasizing the continent’s abundant opportunities.
Iranian foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani described the tour as a significant turning point that could enhance economic and trade relations with African nations. He also noted the shared political views between Iran and the three African countries visited, namely Kenya, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.
This African tour follows Raisi’s visit to several Latin American countries in June, which also face US sanctions, including Cuba, Nicaragua, and Venezuela. It signifies Iran’s efforts to expand its diplomatic reach and establish stronger ties with nations that face similar challenges. Notably, the last visit by an Iranian leader to Zimbabwe took place in 2010 when then-President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad visited the country.
Through these engagements, Iran aims to solidify its international alliances, counteract the impact of sanctions, and diversify its diplomatic partnerships. By fostering economic and trade relations with African countries, Iran seeks to strengthen its position on the global stage and mitigate the effects of international isolation.
