Thabiso Mutirwara
STAFF WRITER
mutirwarat@dailynews.co.zw
ZIMBABWE can become a developed country on the global stage through concerted efforts, unity, and hard work.
This was said by the wife of the Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Renhong Lyu, at the opening of the Hosanna Love in Africa Children’s Home in Harare, where she said Zimbabwe has the potential to eradicate poverty in the same manner China did.
“Decades ago, China was a nation grappling with poverty. Yet, through unity, hard work, and an unyielding spirit, we transformed our destiny. “Today, as the world’s second-largest economy and a country that has eradicated absolute poverty, we stand as living proof that no challenge is insurmountable.
“Zimbabwe, too, is a land of extraordinary beauty, resilience, and untapped potential,” she said. Lyu said Harare and Beijing would continue exploring new avenues for more collaboration and mutual benefit. “This year, as we commemorate the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between our two nations, we take pride in the remarkable progress we have made in fostering a robust partnership.
“Looking ahead, we will continue to explore new avenues for further collaboration and mutual benefit, promoting peace, prosperity, and progress for our peoples, together to contribute meaningfully to the community of a shared future for mankind,” Lyu said.
Lyu inspired less privileged boys and girls to remain level-headed in order to make it in life despite the difficult challenges they may face. “I know life has not always been gentle with you. I understand because I have walked a similar path.
Today, I am reminded of my humble beginnings in a small town in China, about 800 kilometres from Beijing. “Growing up in a family of three siblings, I felt the weight of poverty and scarcity. Yet, my parents’ love and guidance instilled in me the determination to change my circumstances through my persistent efforts to make the best of education opportunities.
China says Zimbabwe has potential to develop
“I still vividly recall gazing up at planes soaring through the sky at the age of six or seven, making a silent promise to myself to one day explore the world beyond my hometown.
“The image of studying by candlelight on freezing winter days remains etched in my memory. Decades later, that promise has led me here. I have had the privilege of travelling to beautiful Zimbabwe, learning from its kind-hearted people, and meeting you as a messenger of friendship,” she said.