Source: The Herald – Breaking news.
Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri (left) receives an artefact from Pakistan Ambassador to Zimbabwe Murad Basser who paid a courtesy call on her at the Zimbabwe Defence House in Harare on Friday.— Picture: Esther Mushove 
Columbus Mabika and Obey Musiiwa
ZIMBABWE and Pakistan have reaffirmed their commitment to cooperation across various sectors, aimed at boosting the economies of both nations.
The development follows a courtesy visit to Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Murad Baseer, in Harare last Friday.
During their meeting, various areas for enhancing bilateral relations were discussed.
The relations between the two countries stretch back to pre-independence when Pakistan trained Zimbabwean liberation fighters during the struggle.
Post-independence, Pakistan also aided in training pilots for the newly formed Air Force of Zimbabwe, solidifying a bond that had endured changing political landscapes.
Minister Muchinguri-Kashiri emphasised the importance of adapting to technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence, which she believes Zimbabwe can benefit from significantly.
“We have to look at the threats we face as a nation and regionally and globally. Technology is now being utilised in ways we cannot ignore,” she said.
Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri (left) is flanked by the Pakistan Ambassador to Zimbabwe Murad Basser as they pose for agroup photo during a coutesy call paid to the minister at the Zimbabwe Defence House in Harare recently.-Picture:Esther Mushove
The Minister highlighted that modern warfare has evolved, with conflicts increasingly being fought using drones and sophisticated technology.
“Wars are now being fought using drones, and everything is controlled from some centre. You can attack any country, any individual using technology,” she said.
This underscores the necessity for Zimbabwe to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing security challenges.
Ambassador Baseer expressed Pakistan’s eagerness to maintain strong relations with Zimbabwe.
“We are happy that we were able to share information and explore how we can work together. But of course, you know Pakistan is a friend of Zimbabwe,” he said.
His remarks reflect a commitment to fostering a relationship that extends beyond mere diplomacy.
In addition, Ambassador Baseer pointed out that Zimbabwe presents numerous economic opportunities for business ventures.
“Zimbabwe as a country has a lot of opportunities, especially in the economic realm, and companies can do a lot of business in Zimbabwe,” he noted.
Ambassador Baseer emphasised that collaboration could go beyond business to include capacity building and training.
“We cannot just do business but also capacity build, train, and become partners with Zimbabwe to achieve the vision of the African Free Trade Area by 2063,” he added.
Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri (left) is flanked by the Pakistan Ambassador to Zimbabwe Murad Basser (centre) and the Teresol Technological Research Solutions Chief Executive Officer Dr Muhammad Faisal Khan as they pose for agroup photo during a coutesy call paid to the minister at the Zimbabwe Defence House in Harare recently.-Picture:Esther Mushove
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