The Zimbabwe Institute of Diplomacy (ZID) had the honour of attending the National Day Reception of the Republic of Belarus, commemorating the country’s Independence Day. The reception brought together members of the Diplomatic Corps, senior Government officials, academia, development partners and distinguished guests in celebration of the enduring friendship between the Republic of Belarus and the Republic of Zimbabwe.
Belarus, a nation that suffered one of the greatest losses of human life during the Great Patriotic War against Nazi Germany, has since become a symbol of resilience, peace, scientific innovation and national development. It was therefore befitting for ZID to join in celebrating the independence of a nation whose history reflects resilience, reconstruction and international cooperation.
In his keynote address, His Excellency Yury Nikalaichyk Ambassador of the Republic of Belarus to Zimbabwe, highlighted the growing political, trade, economic, cultural and educational cooperation between Belarus and Zimbabwe. He emphasised the importance of strengthening multilateralism over unilateralism in addressing contemporary global challenges and called upon the international community to work collectively in confronting both traditional and non-traditional threats to global peace, security and sustainable development.
The Guest of Honour, Dr Frederick M. Shava, representing the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, reaffirmed the excellent bilateral relations between Zimbabwe and Belarus. He conveyed warm congratulations and best wishes from His Excellency President Dr Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa to His Excellency President Alexander Lukashenko, reaffirming Zimbabwe’s commitment to further strengthening strategic cooperation between the two friendly nations.
Notably and cordially present was Mr Alexander Bednikov, Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Zimbabwe.
ZID was represented by its Chairperson, Academic V. A. Chikanda, whose attendance reaffirmed the Institute’s commitment to promoting diplomacy, strengthening international partnerships and advancing peaceful cooperation among nations.
