China Reaffirms Commitment to Deepening Ties with Zimbabwe in 2026

Zimbabwe, Ambassador Zhou Ding, has reaffirmed the strength and resilience of China–Zimbabwe relations, describing the partnership as an “all-weather community with a shared future,” during the 2026 Harare Chinese New Year Carnival.

Addressing senior government officials, diplomats, members of ZANU-PF, veterans of the liberation struggle, and representatives of the Chinese community, Ambassador Zhou extended warm New Year greetings and expressed appreciation to the Government of Zimbabwe for its continued support of the annual cultural celebration.

He paid special tribute to the local Chinese community for organizing the carnival, noting that the event reflects their deep commitment to bilateral friendship, cultural diversity, and Zimbabwe’s economic prosperity.

“With this Chinese New Year carnival, you have once again demonstrated your deep commitment to the friendship between China and Zimbabwe,” Ambassador Zhou said.

Reflecting on 2025, Ambassador Zhou described the year as one of remarkable achievements for China–Zimbabwe relations, marked by the completion and commissioning of major infrastructure and development projects supported by Chinese government financing and private sector investment.

He noted that trade and investment cooperation continued to expand, injecting fresh momentum into Zimbabwe’s socio-economic development, while cultural and people-to-people exchanges grew stronger and more vibrant.

“Today, as we celebrate the Chinese New Year, we also celebrate our enduring partnership, our unwavering solidarity, and our joint achievements in the past year,” he said.

Ambassador Zhou highlighted the Lunar New Year, also known as the Spring Festival, as a symbol of unity, renewal, and hope, now celebrated globally by nearly two billion people.

He drew parallels between Chinese cultural values and the African philosophy of Ubuntu, emphasizing shared respect for tradition, family, and community.

“Both China and Zimbabwe hold our traditions and cultural heritage dear.1 They form the foundation of our societies and provide enduring wisdom, inspiration, and strength on our paths to prosperity,” he said.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Zhou announced that 2026 has been designated as the “China Africa Year of People-to-People Exchanges” by China and the African Union, signaling a renewed focus on strengthening human and cultural connections.

With the Year of the Horse approaching, he reaffirmed China’s commitment to deepening cooperation with Zimbabwe and strengthening fraternal bonds between the two nations.

He described the Horse as a symbol of energy, diligence, perseverance, and vitality, expressing confidence that these qualities would guide both countries toward shared progress.