Russia hails Zimbabwe's UN Security Council election

Russia has congratulated Zimbabwe on securing a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-2028 term, pledging to work closely with Harare to strengthen Africa's influence in global affairs.

Speaking during Russia National Day commemorations in Harare yesterday, Russia's Chargé d'Affaires, Mr Maksim Khaneev, said Moscow looked forward to deepening cooperation with Zimbabwe on international platforms, including the UNSC.

"We congratulate Zimbabwe for securing a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council in 2027-2028," said Mr Khaneev.

"Russia looks forward to working closely to continue strengthening Africa's position as a unique and influential centre of global development."

He described relations between the two countries as being rooted in mutual respect, solidarity and shared values developed over decades of cooperation.

"The ties between Russia and Zimbabwe are built on mutual respect, solidarity and shared values. This friendship is not only diplomatic but deeply human, forged through shared struggles, mutual support and a vision of a brighter future," he said.

Zimbabwe and Russia this year marked 45 years of diplomatic relations, with Mr Khaneev noting that Moscow remains committed to strengthening its engagement with African nations and Zimbabwe in particular.

He also highlighted the upcoming Third Russia-Africa Summit, scheduled for October in Moscow, expressing hope that Zimbabwe would be represented at the highest level.

"This year, the Third Russia-Africa Summit will take place in Moscow in October, and we expect Zimbabwe to be represented at the highest level. Through our joint efforts, we will continue to broaden the scope of Russia-Africa and Russia-Zimbabwe relations, advancing the well-being of our peoples and contributing to the emergence of a just and democratic multipolar world order," he said.

Representing Zimbabwe at the celebrations, Acting Permanent Secretary for Foreign Affairs and International Trade Mr Nesbert Samasuwo commended the longstanding partnership between Harare and Moscow, describing the two countries as allies in defending the principles of multilateralism and international law.

"Together, our nations stand firm in defence of the Charter of the United Nations and the sovereign equality of all states. In the face of growing attempts to erode the foundations of multilateralism and international law, we have built a formidable coalition of like-minded states, committed to justice, fairness and peace," he said.

Mr Samasuwo expressed Zimbabwe's appreciation for Russia's support over the years, particularly Moscow's veto of a proposed UN Security Council resolution against Zimbabwe in 2008.

"We are deeply grateful for Russia's principled and consistent support, including its historic veto in the United Nations Security Council in 2008, which upheld our shared opposition to the subversion of the institutions and principles of the United Nations to serve the selfish interests of a few. That act of solidarity will never be forgotten," he said.

He also thanked Russia and other countries that supported Zimbabwe's successful bid for a UNSC seat, saying the country would use its term to promote inclusivity, dialogue and principled engagement in addressing global challenges.

Mr Samasuwo said Zimbabwe would draw on its experience in diplomacy, regional leadership and multilateral cooperation to contribute meaningfully to the Security Council's work during its two-year tenure.

Zimbabwe's election to the Security Council is expected to enhance the country's profile on the international stage while providing an opportunity to advance African priorities within the world's most powerful decision-making body on matters of international peace and security.