80 countries back Zim’s UNSC bid

Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister Amon Murwira

ZIMBABWE has secured the backing of at least 80 countries outside Africa in its campaign for a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the 2027-28 term, a government official has said.

Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister Amon Murwira revealed that Zimbabwe will embark on a vigorous diplomatic campaign between February and April, targeting UN General Assembly members to consolidate and expand its support base.

“From February until April, we are going to visit several countries to invite members of the General Assembly to visit Zimbabwe,” Murwira told journalists on Tuesday.

“We are looking for a successful act because Zimbabwe is a country that represents peace and tranquillity, among other things.”

If elected, Zimbabwe would join the UNSC’s 10 rotating non-permanent members, who serve two-year terms alongside five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States.

Non-permanent members are elected by the UN General Assembly and require a two-thirds majority vote.

The next round of elections is scheduled for June 2026.

Murwira added that Zimbabwe’s long-standing foreign policy rooted in peaceful coexistence resonated with many nations across the globe.

“The African Union and Sadc support our bid and we received formal support from 80 countries across the globe. Zimbabwe is well-positioned to take up this seat as it is a champion of peace in the region and beyond,” he said.

“Zimbabwe’s commitment to peace is unshakeable. We recognise that peace is the cornerstone of sustainable socio-economic development and stand ready to contribute our experience and leadership to the mission of the Security Council.

“As we embark on this important journey to join the UN Security Council, I appeal to all UN member States to support Zimbabwe’s candidature. A vote for Zimbabwe is a vote for peace, multilateral co-operation and a more inclusive global order.”

Murwira said the country’s campaign, running under the theme Advancing 21st Century Solutions for Global Peace and Security Through Multilateralism, sought to strengthen its global footprint while contributing to international peace, security and co-operation.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa last year launched the country’s bid in Harare, pledging to advance global peace, counter-terrorism efforts and the interests of the African continent.

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