Łukašenka OKs Zimbabwe commission

May 2, BPN. Alaksandr Łukašenka has signed an edict to set up a permanent commission for cooperation with Zimbabwe.

Belarusian and Zimbabwean officials agreed to establish the joint commission during the Belarusian leader’s visit to Harare earlier this year.

This step would “contribute to a stronger cooperation in various areas of the Belarusian-Zimbabwean relationship,” his press office said.

Łukašenka and officials visited the southern African country three months ago and signed 20 cooperation agreements.

The Belarusian foreign ministry said trade between the two countries totaled about $25 million in 2021. Belarus exported agricultural machinery, vehicles and equipment, and imported fruits and vegetables.

Deputy Prime Minister Piotr Parchomčyk and Łukašenka’s long-time ally Viktar Šejman oversee cooperation with Zimbabwe.

Unofficial reports suggest that the regime might be involved in mining in the African country.