Republic of Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe donates outside broadcast van from the People's Republic of China. China has been a long time ally of the Southern African state., a photo by Pan-African News Wire File Photos on Flickr.
Thursday, 04 April 2013 00:00
Herald Reporter
THE Chinese Government yesterday donated seven buses and state-of-the-art Information Communication Technology (ICT) equipment to the National Defence College (NDC) to enhance learning at the premier defence learning institution.
The equipment has already been installed at the institution while experts from China have been seconded to train locals to enable them operate and maintain the equipment.
Defence Minister Emmerson Mnangagwa commended the Chinese for the donation.
“The donations to the NDC by the People’s Republic of China are a result of the long standing cordial relations between the People’s Republic of China and Zimbabwe.
“The Government of Zimbabwe adopted the Look East Policy that promotes trade and diplomatic ties with the economic giant.
“The invaluable assistance that continues to be rendered to the NDC by the People’s Republic of China is a clear indication of the achievements of this noble and strategic policy,” he said.
Minister Mnangagwa said a Memorandum of Understanding for the provision of military aid to Zimbabwe had been signed between the two countries last year with the donations received by the NDC being part of the package under the agreement. He thanked China for its continued support to Zimbabwe.
“My appreciation goes to China for the invaluable assistance they continue to provide to Zimbabwe in general and the NDC in particular. Zimbabwe will forever be grateful for the support received from the People’s Republic of China in the fight against the illegal economic sanctions imposed by Britain, US and their allies following the launch of the land reform programme.
“In 2008 the People’s Republic of China and Russia used their membership to the UN Security Council to veto the proposed UN sanctions on Zimbabwe,” Minister Mnangagwa said.
Chinese ambassador to Zimbabwe Mr Lin Lin, said the donated equipment would modernise the training of the country’s defence forces.
“The installation of ICT’s not only promotes the college facilities but promotes the advancement in ICT application,” he said.
Ambassador Lin said Zimbabwe and China enjoyed cordial relations and said his country’s policies towards its partners in Africa were based on mutual respect.
“China insists on equality with other countries despite size, wealth and strength. China’s co-operation with Africa is based on mutual respect, equality and shared development paths,” Mr Lin said.
He said China would soon ship a fully equipped ambulance for the NDC and a 169 KW solar power system. Last year China also donated furniture to the college. The college has enrolled students for a National Defence Course and Master of Science Degree in International Relations.
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