Zimbabwe drafts new Foreign Affairs, Trade Bill

The Zimbabwean government is drafting a Foreign Affairs and International Trade Bill expected to be enacted later this year, aimed at codifying the country's diplomatic and economic engagements under the Second Republic, Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Professor Amon Murwira has confirmed.

Speaking at a public lecture at the Zimbabwe National Defence University (ZNDU) on Wednesday, Prof Murwira said the legislation would provide a structured framework for Zimbabwe's foreign policy, reinforcing the country's diplomatic offensive launched since late 2017 under the engagement and re‑engagement mantra.

"Our national strategic intent is to ensure that our foreign relations yield positive results for Zimbabwe and the countries that we partner with," Prof Murwira said. "The Constitution directs us to formulate laws and regulations that align with national principles. Section 12 outlines the guiding principles for our foreign affairs, and this Bill will translate those aspirations into legislation, providing a unified and predictable system for Zimbabwe's engagement with the world."

Prof Murwira explained that the Act aligns with directives from President Emmerson Mnangagwa and serves as a legal foundation for the country's international actions. "Like in the Bible, where actions are backed by law, we are ensuring that our state affairs operate under codified legal frameworks," he said.

During the lecture, Prof Murwira presented visual data illustrating Zimbabwe's growing global partnerships, which he said form the basis of a comprehensive global strategy. The ministry is using this information to identify opportunities for trade, investment, and collaboration with other nations.

"Our aim is to engage with the world as a friend to all, enemy to none, and open for business. We want to work with every country for the benefit of Zimbabwe and its people," Prof Murwira said. "Our global strategy is fundamentally peaceful, focusing on deepening trade and economic relations."

Since 2018, Zimbabwe's foreign policy approach has successfully attracted investors across agriculture, mining, tourism, and manufacturing sectors, contributing to job creation and economic growth. Prof Murwira emphasized that the new Bill would institutionalize these diplomatic gains and provide a structured mechanism for sustainable international engagement.

The legislation, once enacted, is expected to provide clear guidance on Zimbabwe's international relations, trade agreements, and strategic partnerships, reinforcing the country's commitment to predictable, law-backed foreign policy while promoting economic development.