Zim envoy flags major investment opportunities in Iran
KUDAKWASHE CHIBVURI
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to Iran, Brian Bright Kupemba, says there are significant trade and investment opportunities between Zimbabwe and Iran, despite ongoing regional tensions linked to escalating geopolitical conflict.
“There are still enormous opportunities for business and investment cooperation between Zimbabwe and Iran,” Ambassador Kupemba said.
Speaking on ZiFM Stereo’s current affairs programme, Kupemba noted that before the latest escalation of hostilities, Iran had been preparing to host the Iran-Africa Economic Conference. Zimbabwe and Iran were also working towards convening a Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation in Harare. While these engagements were disrupted by the conflict, he said the underlying economic potential between the two countries remains intact.
Kupemba highlighted Iran’s advancement in indigenous capabilities across science, engineering, manufacturing, nanotechnology, and space technology, achieved despite years of international sanctions. He said Iran’s emphasis on self-reliance and innovation in key sectors offers valuable lessons and partnership opportunities for Zimbabwe.
He outlined several sectors where Zimbabwean businesses could collaborate with Iranian counterparts, including agriculture, mining, jewellery and gold production, livestock hybridisation, technology, innovation, as well as training and skills transfer.
“Iran’s strategic location also positions it as a gateway to Central Asia and the Caucasus region, creating broader trade and investment possibilities for Zimbabwean companies seeking stronger engagement within the Global South,” he said.
Meanwhile, geopolitical tensions surrounding Iran continue to intensify, with renewed exchanges of accusations between global powers over the conflict and its wider regional implications.
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf this week accused the United States of “seeking a new round of war,” warning that Iran “will not bow down to force” and urging heightened national readiness.
In Washington, US President Donald Trump has said he is not in a hurry to end military operations, stating that achieving strategic objectives takes priority over timelines.
The White House has previously outlined objectives including degrading Iran’s missile capabilities, naval strength, and regional proxy networks, as well as preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon.
However, analysts note that several of these goals remain unfulfilled amid continued instability in the region.
