SHELMA SIBANDA
Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, His Excellency, Zhou Ding underscored China’s commitment to supporting Zimbabwe’s innovation capacity and promoting mutual prosperity as a catalyst for economic prosperity and global cooperation.
Speaking during the Business Conference yesterday at ZITF, Ambassador Ding highlighted China’s impressive achievements in scientific and technological innovation, citing the country’s ranking in the Global Innovation Index and its consistent filing of international patent applications.
China has long recognized the pivotal role of innovation as the primary driver of economic growth. We have implemented an innovation-driven development strategy, which has propelled us to the forefront of global innovation,” he said.
Ambassador Ding added, “Our emerging industries, such as 5G networks, new energies, and high-speed rail, have experienced remarkable growth, showcasing China’s commitment to advancing technological frontiers.”
The Ambassador emphasised that China’s innovation-driven development was fueled by strong government support and favourable policies aimed at creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
He outlined China’s investments in research and development, fostering an innovation ecosystem, and improving the business environment based on market principles.
“We believe in the power of innovation to unlock economic potential and create new opportunities. China’s ‘new quality productive forces’ concept, with its focus on advanced productivity driven by innovation, high-tech, and high-quality industries, will contribute to global market vitality,” stated Ambassador Zhou Ding.
He further said, “This concept will not only benefit China but also create business opportunities for the entire world, including Zimbabwe.”
The Ambassador highlighted the Belt and Road Initiative and the Global Development Initiative as examples of China’s commitment to international cooperation. He mentioned the first Belt and Road Conference on Science and Technology Exchange hosted by China, along with intergovernmental science and technology cooperation agreements signed with more than 80 Road initiative partners.
Furthermore, Ambassador Zhou Ding acknowledged China’s contributions to Zimbabwe’s industrialization and economic development through infrastructure projects and investments.
He cited the establishment of the largest steel plant in Sub-Saharan Africa, Chinese investment in the lithium mining sector, and the diversification of Zimbabwe’s manufacturing industry through joint ventures with Chinese enterprises.
“Chinese investment has played a key role in propelling Zimbabwe’s economic and social progress. It has generated substantial tax revenue and employment opportunities,” noted Ambassador Ding. “We believe in the potential of Zimbabwe and will continue to support its capacity for innovation and economic growth.”
The Ambassador emphasised the importance of cooperation in capacity building, highlighting China’s efforts to facilitate knowledge exchange and training programs for Zimbabwean officials, professionals, and business leaders. He commended the partnerships between Chinese and Zimbabwean educational institutions, which have contributed to skills development in various sectors, including ICT and digital technologies.
In conclusion, Ambassador Ding expressed China’s determination to support Zimbabwe’s innovation-driven development and urged Zimbabwe to improve its business environment, invest in education and talent development, and maintain policy continuity to foster sustained economic growth.
