Staff Reporter
The European Union (EU) Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, has welcomed
the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) 2023 exhibition, describing it as a competitive trade platform.
Speaking to this publication at the ZITF 2023 exhibition in Bulawayo, Ambassador Kirchman said, “For the first time in history, EU presented its own stand at the ZITF. As #TeamEurope, the EU stand hosted EU member states, which included Sweden, France, Netherlands and Italy. What I witnessed during my tour at this exhibition platform is more than what I was expecting.”
Ambassador Kirchman reiterated that trade and investment in Zimbabwe was one of the key areas that are important to the EU.
“EU is a major trading partner of Zimbabwe with an annual volume of US$700 million based on our Economic Partnership Agreement. But I think we should do more. Let’s work together and see how we can support the objective to build a stronger and prosperous Zimbabwe,” said Ambassador Kirchman.
The Ambassador noted that through the ZITF, the EU Delegation in Zimbabwe would have the opportunity to highlight some of its projects and efforts, such as the Technical Assistance to the Zimbabwe Economic Partnership Agreement (TAZEPA), which aims to improve Zimbabwe’s integration into the regional and international trading system.
“EU is strongly supporting Zimbabwe’s efforts in creating a more conducive environment for business. On a global level, EU as a co-chairperson of the good governance track, is taking part in the ongoing Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution high level dialogue process initiated by Zimbabwe. Therefore, our presence here at the ZITF is part of EU broader efforts to accompany Zimbabwe in its shared goal of increasing trade and economic development,” Ambassador Kirchman revealed.
EU started exhibiting at the ZITF this year, showcasing most of its agricultural projects which it is partnering with the Zimbabwean government. Most of the projects are targeting farmers in cattle ranching and dairy farming, to boost production.
