Zimbabwe and Zambia strengthened their security partnership at the 34th session of their Joint Permanent Commission on Defense and Security, which began yesterday. Both nations seek greater collaboration regarding regional stability, anti-terrorism efforts, and cross-border criminal activities. Defense officials from both countries emphasized that their nations share deep historical connections that extend beyond diplomatic relationships.
Permanent Secretary for Defense Mr. Aaron Nhepera described the relationship between these countries as resembling Siamese twins, noting they essentially function as the same people. He recognized the contributions of founding leaders, including Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, Robert Mugabe, Joshua Nkomo, and Malawi's Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda, for their unified resistance against colonial rule. The official acknowledged that many Zambians provided crucial support during Zimbabwe's fight for independence.
Mr. Nhepera expressed lasting gratitude for Zambia's assistance to nationalist groups such as ZAPU and ZANU. That support extended to other liberation movements across southern Africa, including FRELIMO from Mozambique and South Africa's ANC. Zambian citizens contributed both resources and lives to help free Zimbabwe from colonial control, creating a bond that remains significant between these neighboring nations.
The meeting concludes today amid growing security challenges throughout Southern Africa, particularly regarding ongoing conflicts in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Zambian Permanent Secretary Mr. Maambo Haamaundu stressed their responsibility to address mutual concerns and develop action plans moving forward. He called for preserving the unity established by previous generations of leaders for the benefit of both countries and the broader region.
High-ranking security personnel attended the commission meeting, including Zimbabwe Defense Forces Commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba, Presidential Office Director-General Dr. Fulton Mangwanya, and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Commissioner-General Dr. Moses Chihobvu. These officials represent the continued commitment to maintaining strong defense cooperation between the neighboring countries.
Permanent Secretary for Defense Mr. Aaron Nhepera described the relationship between these countries as resembling Siamese twins, noting they essentially function as the same people. He recognized the contributions of founding leaders, including Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, Robert Mugabe, Joshua Nkomo, and Malawi's Dr. Hastings Kamuzu Banda, for their unified resistance against colonial rule. The official acknowledged that many Zambians provided crucial support during Zimbabwe's fight for independence.
Mr. Nhepera expressed lasting gratitude for Zambia's assistance to nationalist groups such as ZAPU and ZANU. That support extended to other liberation movements across southern Africa, including FRELIMO from Mozambique and South Africa's ANC. Zambian citizens contributed both resources and lives to help free Zimbabwe from colonial control, creating a bond that remains significant between these neighboring nations.
The meeting concludes today amid growing security challenges throughout Southern Africa, particularly regarding ongoing conflicts in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Zambian Permanent Secretary Mr. Maambo Haamaundu stressed their responsibility to address mutual concerns and develop action plans moving forward. He called for preserving the unity established by previous generations of leaders for the benefit of both countries and the broader region.
High-ranking security personnel attended the commission meeting, including Zimbabwe Defense Forces Commander General Philip Valerio Sibanda, Police Commissioner-General Stephen Mutamba, Presidential Office Director-General Dr. Fulton Mangwanya, and Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service Commissioner-General Dr. Moses Chihobvu. These officials represent the continued commitment to maintaining strong defense cooperation between the neighboring countries.
