by Rungano Dzikira

Diplomats have been urged to pursue transformative diplomacy which focuses on economic development in line with the Government’s economic thrust on improving the economy.

Speaking during a meeting with Zimbabwean ambassadors and heads of missions posted outside the country, (Charge d’Affaires) at his Munhumutapa offices, President Emmerson Mnangagwa accentuated the need for embassies to explore economic development from their areas of influence.

“The Second Republic is about servant leadership and this should guide diplomats as they execute their duties abroad.

“All diplomatic missions must now address trade issues as they now fall under their ministry, and try to promote trade with the capitals they are accredited,” said the President.

Currently the country is focused on reversing economic stigmatisation, through the Zimbabwe being open for business mantra and re-engaging with the world.

Diplomats were also given a brief on the Transitional Stability Programme (TSP) sector by sector with the intention being to explain how Zimbabwe expected to industrialise and modernise.

Government also pledged its commitment towards clearing outstanding salary arrears to the diplomats.

This meeting comes as a summation to the week-long workshop between the country’s top level diplomats aimed at mapping the way forward and realigning the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in line with Government’s economic thrust, held at the Zimbabwe Institute of Public Administration (ZIPAM) in Darwendale.