The Greek Ambassador to Zimbabwe, H.E. Anna Farrou, on Tuesday commemorated Greece’s National Day, celebrating 205 years of independence while reaffirming the deepening bilateral relations between Greece and Zimbabwe.
The event, held at Borrowdale Racecourse, brought together diplomats, government officials, business leaders, and members of the Greek and Cypriot community. Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Nesbert Samasuwo, attended as Guest of Honour, representing Foreign Affairs Minister Amon Murwira.
Addressing attendees, Ambassador Farrou described the occasion as “a day of pride, remembrance, and celebration” for Greeks worldwide, marking the historic uprising of March 25, 1821.
“Fueled by the rallying cry ‘freedom or death’… the Greek people began the war for independence, a struggle which, after many sacrifices, culminated in the recognition of Greece as an independent state in 1830,” she said.
She reflected on Greece’s resilience over the past two centuries, noting that despite economic and political challenges, the country has evolved into a stable democracy with a steadily growing economy anchored by tourism, shipping, and agriculture.
“In an increasingly turbulent geopolitical environment, Greece remains a reliable partner and a strong pillar of stability and security in the Mediterranean region,” she added.
Ambassador Farrou also highlighted Greece’s active global role, including its tenure as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2025–2026, where it continues to advocate for rules-based multilateralism and peaceful conflict resolution.
Speaking at the same event, Samasuwo conveyed Zimbabwe’s congratulations and reaffirmed Harare’s commitment to strengthening relations with Athens.
“Zimbabwe remains deeply grateful for the historic support and solidarity extended by Greece during our liberation struggle. This foundational bond continues to inspire the cordial and steadily growing bilateral relations between our two nations,” he said.
He emphasized Zimbabwe’s openness to expanding economic cooperation with Greece across strategic sectors.
“In line with our engagement and re-engagement policy, we extend a warm invitation to Greek investors to explore opportunities in agriculture, mining, infrastructure development, tourism, ICT and green energy,” Samasuwo noted.
Turning to bilateral relations, Ambassador Farrou praised the longstanding friendship between the two countries, rooted in shared values and a common struggle for freedom.
“The Greek people… stood by the people of Zimbabwe in their struggle for self-determination. Soon after Zimbabwe gained its independence, Greece recognized it, and our two countries established diplomatic relations in 1980,” she said.
She further acknowledged Greece’s humanitarian contributions to Zimbabwe, particularly in health, food security, and education through scholarship programmes for Zimbabwean students.
Samasuwo echoed the appreciation, highlighting the impact of Greek support in critical sectors.
“Zimbabwe is appreciative of Greece’s humanitarian and developmental assistance, particularly in the health sector and in the training of our medical professionals,” he said.
The Ambassador also paid tribute to the vibrant Greek and Cypriot community in Zimbabwe, describing it as a vital bridge fostering cultural exchange, business growth, and educational development.
Looking ahead, both nations expressed commitment to expanding cooperation and addressing global challenges such as climate change and security through multilateral engagement. In a show of diplomatic goodwill, Greece reiterated its support for Zimbabwe’s bid for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2027–2028 term.
“These ties, rooted in shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to freedom and progress, continue to grow stronger with time,” Ambassador Farrou said in her closing remarks.
The celebrations featured entertainment by Mary Anibal, alongside vibrant art exhibitions by Greek artists and Zimbabwean alumni mentored through Greek cultural programmes. Several corporates also showcased their products, including National Foods Holdings Limited with its Gloria Flour range and Edgars Stores Limited displaying apparel.
The event concluded with renewed calls for strengthened cooperation, as Greece and Zimbabwe continue to build on their historic ties toward a future of shared prosperity and global partnership.
