Zimbabwe can adopt the Chinese blue print formula to development - Xin Shunkang

Outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Mr Xin Shunkang, says African countries can adopt the Chinese blue print formula to development by maintaining stability, commitment to economic development and willingness to reform.

Ambassador Xin made the remarks during a presentation of a public lecture titled ‘China’s Economic Miracle and Sino-Zimbabwe Relations’ hosted by the Southern African Research and Documentation Centre.

The public lecturer on China-Africa relations in Southern Africa was held in honour of Mr Xin, who is wrapping up his two and half-year tour of duty.

Addressing delegates who included members of the diplomatic community, academics, government officials and business executives, Ambassador Xin said his country has managed to become an economic powerhouse because of principles adopted by the ruling Chinese Communist Party.

He said China is willing to assist Zimbabwe and other countries in the region to also achieve economic prosperity.

One of the panel discussants, Ambassador Chris Mutsvangwa, said the coming in of countries like China, Brazil and India to do business with Africa has opened many opportunities, adding that even from a historical perspective, the region stands to benefit more from dealing with Asian countries than western nations.

Government officials who attended the lecture commended Ambassador Xin, popularly known as ‘Mr Chakanaka Chakanaka’ for his passion and humility.

The Southern Africa Research and Documentation Centre Executive Director, Ms Phyllis Johnson, presented Ambassador Xin with a gift as a token of appreciation.

During his tenure, Ambassador Xin is credited for spearheading various projects in the mining, agriculture, infrastructure development and telecommunications sectors among others between his country and Zimbabwe.

In 2011, bilateral trade between China and Zimbabwe exceeded US$800 million.

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