Zimbabwe is ready to purchase Belarusian agricultural machinery and dairy products and supply Belarus with fruits and cotton, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Monica Mutsvangwa told BelTA before a meeting with the leadership of the Belarusian Women’s Union in Minsk on 12 May.
"First of all, I would like to congratulate you and express gratitude for the work you do. We strive for our countries to become partners, especially in small and medium-sized businesses. After all, small and medium-sized enterprises play a crucial role in Zimbabwe’s economy, accounting for 60% of the GDP," Monica Mutsvangwa said.
She noted that Zimbabwe is engaged in the extraction of minerals, natural resources, and gold. Over the past 10 years, gold production has increased to 40 tonnes per year. It is an undeniable success which was achieved thanks to President Emmerson Mnangagwa. "We now have a new currency backed by gold, which has brought stability to our country," the minister added.
Zimbabwe is also keen to develop its agricultural sector. "We know that agriculture in Belarus is at a very high level. We want to be partners with you. More than 70% of Zimbabwe’s people work in rural areas on farmlands," Monica Mutsvangwa noted. According to her, there is also great potential for agricultural equipment supplies. Zimbabwe is interested in tractors, combines, dryers, and any equipment for mineral extraction.
Zimbabwe hails the quality of Belarusian dairy products and is ready to purchase them. In return, it can supply fruits that are unavailable in Belarus during the winter. Zimbabwe has a very favourable climate, with temperatures ranging between 15-28 degrees Celsius throughout the year.
"We are also engaged in textiles and leather processing, and we would like to find partners in these areas as well. We produce cotton and would like to learn from your expertise, acquire new skills and supply cotton to your country," Monica Mutsvangwa stated.
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