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Political Editor

ZIMBABWE will continue following the Chinese path to prosperity as it seeks to become an upper-middle-income economy by 2030, President Mnangagwa has said.

In his congratulatory letter to his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping on the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China, the President said from humble beginnings and in a very short space of time, the Asian economic powerhouse has grabbed world attention.

“Your Excellency, over decades, China has caught the attention of the world with its significant achievements, rising from an underdeveloped agrarian country to being the world’s largest economy and a major global player.

“The people of Zimbabwe take great pleasure in joining you as you commemorate this historic and momentous day which marks the 72nd anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China.

“I am confident that China will continue to develop and contribute to the stability and prosperity of our two nations. Dear Brother, Zimbabwe will continue to learn from your great country’s struggle, perseverance and development path, as we strive to achieve the vision of turning our country into a middle income economy by year 2030.”

Presently, China is working with Zimbabwe in the construction of the New Parliament building in Mt Hampden, the upgrading and expansion of Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport and the construction of the Hwange 7 and 8 thermal power station, among many others.

Chinese private players have come into the mining sector and steel production sub sectors.

On his part, and in a statement to mark his country’s 72nd anniversary, Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Guo Shaochun said China will continue cooperating with Zimbabwe despite attempts by detractors to spoil the good friendship.

“Our long-standing friendship and fruitful cooperation have made some political elements jealous. They keep saying something is not right, fabricating fake news to attack Chinese investments in Zimbabwe and soil the image of China and Chinese companies.

“We are confident facts speak louder than words. We are confident the wise Zimbabwean people will not be fooled by a bunch of clowns. We are confident our deep-rooted friendship will not be shaken by a couple of lies.

“In fact, their smearing only vindicates our success and enhances our confidence and strength. China and Zimbabwe will keep running hand in hand so fast that their lies can never catch up. Let us continue to demonstrate a commitment to act and deliver. The steps we take and the impact we produce is the best way to improve life for our peoples to repel provocations and to fulfil the historical responsibilities placed on us by our times,” he said.

In July, the Chinese ruling party, the Communist Party of China (CPC) celebrated its centenary and yesterday’s celebrations were for the founding of present-day China.