Oscar J Jeke
Zim Now Reporter
The outgoing European Union Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, has highlighted key milestones in EU-Zimbabwe relations as he bids farewell after serving as Brussels’ top diplomat in Harare since 2022.
Ambassador von Kirchmann on Thursday paid a courtesy call on Vice President Constantino Chiwenga, and later on President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House in Harare, marking the end of his diplomatic tenure.
Reflecting on his three-year term, Ambassador von Kirchmann pointed to significant progress in economic cooperation, debt dialogue, and private sector engagement.
“Thank you, ZimTreasury Minister, Hon. Prof. Mthuli Ncube, for the opportunity to reflect on our strong cooperation over the past three years,” he wrote on social media. “The progress made on arrears clearance and debt resolution through the Structured Dialogue Platform is a promising step for Zimbabwe’s development.”
During his time in office, von Kirchmann played a pivotal role in advancing trade and investment ties between Zimbabwe and the European bloc. Notable achievements include facilitating duty-free exports to the EU, supporting private sector growth, and boosting investor confidence through the EU-Zimbabwe Business Forum.
Trade volumes between the two partners surged by 30% from 2022 to 2023, reaching a total of US$880 million.
“I’m especially proud of what we’ve achieved together in boosting private sector growth and expanding trade and investment including the first-ever Business Forum under #GlobalGateway,” he said.
The European Union has remained a key development partner for Zimbabwe, supporting various sectors including governance, agriculture, and health. Under von Kirchmann’s leadership, the EU has also strengthened engagement with government ministries, civil society, and the private sector.
“It has been an honour to support this partnership,” he said.
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