PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has departed Zimbabwe for the Vatican in Italy, where he is scheduled to hold a historic meeting with Pope Leo XIV this weekend.
The Head of State and Government is accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, the Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Professor Mthuli Ncube, and other senior government officials.
Speaking before departure, Professor Murwira said the President’s visit represents an important step in strengthening relations with the Vatican.
“His Excellency is embarking on a state visit to the Vatican.He was invited by the Pope to pay a state visit. It is important to deepen our relations with the Vatican because the Vatican represents peace and understanding. One of the main objectives of the Constitution is the issue of peace. Peaceful coexistence of nations and humanity is a basis upon which prosperity will be built. So, the President is fulfilling that constitutional mandate by going to the Vatican.”
After the Vatican, President Mnangagwa will proceed to China for the 80th anniversary of the victory during the World War II.
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His Excellency will proceed to go to the People’s Republic of China, where he is going to participate in the 80th anniversary of the victory celebrations of the People’s Republic of China over fascism during the Second World War. Again, this signifies peace, His Excellency is on a peace mission and that peace mission promotes the prosperity and the integrity of our nation, together with its dignity. This is an important invitation, as you know, Zimbabwe and the People’s Republic of China share a deep, comprehensive relationship. These activities that His Excellency is doing is building a peaceful world in which Zimbabwe can thrive,” Professor Murwira said.
President Mnangagwa was seen off at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport by Vice President Colonel (Retired) Kembo Mohadi, Minister of Defence Honourable Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri, Minister of State Security Honourable Lovemore Matuke, Minister of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Dr Jenfan Muswere, Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs and Devolution Senator Charles Tavengwa and Service Chiefs.
Vice President Kembo Mohadi is the Acting President.
