Zimbabwe’s Vice President, General (Retired) Dr. Constantino Chiwenga, recently engaged in a significant diplomatic meeting with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations.
The meeting, which took place on May 3, 2025, at the Holy See’s Secretariat of State, focused on bolstering the longstanding diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and the Catholic Church.
The Vice President’s visit underscored Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening international partnerships, particularly in sectors critical to the nation’s social and economic development. The discussions covered several key areas, including education, healthcare, and the Church’s role in fostering social development in Zimbabwe.
Vice President Chiwenga, who was accompanied by senior government officials, commended the Vatican’s ongoing support for the people of Zimbabwe and expressed the government’s interest in expanding these collaborative efforts. Archbishop Gallagher, in turn, acknowledged Zimbabwe’s progress and the vital role that the Catholic Church continues to play in addressing the socio-economic challenges facing the country.
The meeting also addressed broader regional and international issues, with both parties stressing the importance of promoting peace, dialogue, and reconciliation. Vice President Chiwenga highlighted Zimbabwe’s commitment to engaging with the international community and using diplomatic relations to advance its development goals.
In addition to education and healthcare, discussions also explored potential collaborations in other areas such as cultural exchange and humanitarian assistance, reaffirming the mutual desire to enhance cooperation for the benefit of both nations.
This diplomatic engagement is part of Zimbabwe’s broader foreign policy strategy to strengthen ties with key international partners and organisations, aiming for greater socio-economic development and regional stability.
