Speaker of the Russian Federation Council, Valentina Matvienko, recently met with Auxillia Mnangagwa, spouse of the President of Zimbabwe and head of the Angel of Hope Foundation. Matvienko expressed her warm memories of her official visit to Zimbabwe in June 2022, where she had a detailed conversation with President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Auxillia Mnangagwa in Moscow later that year. The meeting aimed to promote mutually beneficial cooperation between Russia and Zimbabwe.
Matvienko emphasized that Russia and Zimbabwe have a long-standing track record of maintaining friendly relations, dating back to Zimbabwe's fight for independence. The two countries have established regular and proactive political dialogue based on mutual respect and adherence to a multipolar world order. This past February, they marked 45 years of establishing diplomatic relations, with Matvienko highlighting their consistent support for each other despite the challenging international landscape.
The meeting also touched on Zimbabwe's participation in the Russia-Africa summits, with the third summit scheduled to take place in Moscow on October 28-29. Matvienko noted that preparations for the event are in the final stretch, with a focus on creating a roadmap for promoting practical cooperation. She expressed her conviction that the summit will serve as a powerful impetus for promoting deeper cooperation between Russia and African countries, including Zimbabwe.
Auxillia Mnangagwa stated that President Emmerson Mnangagwa's participation in the Russia-Africa summit aims to enhance bilateral ties and promote deeper cooperation. She emphasized the importance of these relations and expressed gratitude for Russia's support in developing Zimbabwe. Matvienko praised Auxillia Mnangagwa for her leadership in healthcare, education, and humanitarian efforts, highlighting her personal contribution to expanding cooperation between Russia and Zimbabwe.
The meeting also covered humanitarian matters and educational cooperation, with Matvienko recalling Auxillia Mnangagwa's participation in the 3rd Eurasian Women's Forum. Matvienko invited Auxillia Mnangagwa to attend the next edition of the forum in 2027 and supported her proposal to hold an interactive session featuring first ladies from various African countries.
The discussion also involved Deputy Speaker of the Federation Council, Konstantin Kosachev, and other officials. They explored ways to strengthen cooperation between Russia and Zimbabwe, with a focus on promoting practical partnerships and people-to-people exchanges. Matvienko and Auxillia Mnangagwa reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and cooperation between their countries.
The meeting between Matvienko and Auxillia Mnangagwa reflects the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between Russia and Zimbabwe. Both countries have expressed their commitment to promoting cooperation in various fields, including politics, economy, and humanitarian affairs. The upcoming Russia-Africa summit is expected to provide a platform for further discussions and agreements on deepening cooperation between Russia and African countries.
Key points
- Russia and Zimbabwe have marked 45 years of diplomatic relations, with a strong track record of friendly relations and mutual support.
- The Russia-Africa summit aims to promote deeper cooperation between Russia and African countries, including Zimbabwe.
- Auxillia Mnangagwa's leadership in healthcare, education, and humanitarian efforts has been praised by Matvienko, highlighting her contribution to expanding cooperation between Russia and Zimbabwe.
