By Victor Fanuel
HARARE —Presidential Special Advisor to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Paul Tungwarara, has applauded President Emmerson Mnangagwa for his statesmanship and diplomatic clarity.
He said the incumbent’s remarks this week underscore a mature, sovereign leadership approach that will unlock multi-billion-dollar investments across Zimbabwe’s key economic sectors
Tungwarara was responding to President Mnangagwa’s comments made at the World Governments Summit in Dubai, where the Zimbabwean leader rejected rigid East–West binaries and reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s right to pursue partnerships that serve its national interests.
In his address, Mnangagwa underscored Zimbabwe’s foreign policy “friend to all and enemy to none” in which he envisages the nation aims to maintain peaceful, cooperative relations with all nations, regardless of their political systems, ideologies, or global alignments.
“Whether it is in relation to the West or the East, what is primarily important is what we ourselves, as an officer, are satisfied with.
“We don’t need to please the West or please the East.
“ We please ourselves,” said Mnangagwa.
Tungwarara said these remarks reflect a confident and pragmatic leadership style that is resonating with global investors, particularly in the Middle East.
“His excellency Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s statements this week clearly demonstrate strategic clarity, sovereignty and economic pragmatism.
“This is the kind of leadership that builds confidence among serious investors.
“It is my firm view that this diplomatic posture will unlock significant multi-billion-dollar investments in mining, manufacturing, real estate, tourism and agriculture,” said Tungwarara.
Tungwarara expressed strong confidence in Mnangagwa’s ability to steer Zimbabwe towards its long-term development goals, anchored on Vision 2030, National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) and the recently implemented NDS2.
NDS2 outlines ten priority areas, which are premised on three thematic thrusts designed to transform the economy, develop people and society, and strengthen governance and global engagement.
“Under his excellency President Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s leadership, Zimbabwe is firmly on course to attain middle-income economy status by 2030.
“The policy consistency, reform agenda and focus on infrastructure and production are aligned with Vision 2030 and the national development strategies.
“These frameworks provide clarity and certainty for investors,” he said.
Zimbabwe’s re-engagement drive has intensified in recent years as the country seeks to diversify its global partnerships amid the continued impact of sanctions imposed by the United States and its allies, which Harare says have constrained access to long-term financing and foreign direct investment.
At the Dubai summit, Mnangagwa emphasised that Zimbabwe’s foreign relations are shaped by historical realities but must ultimately deliver tangible economic benefits for its people.
“Yes, Zimbabwe is a sovereign state. And we move on the basis that gives us the best results for our resources,” said Mnangagwa.
Tungwarara also highlighted Zimbabwe’s growing international profile, particularly in tourism, noting that the country has recently been recognised by Forbes magazine as the world’s best tourist destination.
He said the recognition reflects deliberate investment in infrastructure, stability, and destination marketing.
“Zimbabwe has emerged as one of the world’s most attractive tourist destinations.
“This global recognition is not accidental.
“It is the result of peace, policy direction and infrastructure development under the astute leader of president Emmerson Mnangagwa.”
He further noted that Zimbabwe has recorded significant infrastructural developments, particularly in road rehabilitation and modernisation, as well as the construction and upgrading of major hospitals, strengthening service delivery and improving the investment climate.
“These developments are critical enablers of economic growth.
“Modern roads, improved health facilities and functional infrastructure are essential for industrialisation, tourism growth and agricultural productivity,” said Tungwarara.
Tungwarara said Mnangagwa’s clear rejection of ideological alignment in favour of national interest reinforces Zimbabwe’s long-standing position that it is open for business with all partners willing to engage on the basis of mutual respect.
“By stating that Zimbabwe will ‘please ourselves,’ the President is affirming a principle that investors respect — sovereignty, predictability and clarity of purpose,.
“This is why I am confident that Zimbabwe will continue to attract high-value, long-term investment across multiple sectors,” said Tungwarara.
Mnangagwa reiterated at the summit that sanctions remain a major impediment to Zimbabwe’s full reintegration into the global economy, calling for their removal to unlock affordable financing and accelerate development.
