The Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri this week joined world leaders in tackling topical global peace and security at the 62nd Munich Security Conference  in Germany. The conference, held under the theme ‘Under Destruction’ is taking place at a time when the global peace and security environment is under threat amid unprecedented  conflicts, tension and mistrust in a changing global landscape.

The Munich Security Council was attended by 60 heads of states and government, Ministers of Defence, Ministers of Foreign Affairs  and representatives from about 115 countries and  was addressed by prominent personalities that included the UK Prime Minister, US  Secretary of State, and the Chinese Minister of Foreign Affairs.

Speaking during the official opening of the Conference, German Chancellor, Frederich Merz, highlighted that the world is witnessing the end of the so-called ruled based world order as evidenced by great power rivalry, struggle for spheres of influence, and decline in multilateralism, resulting in the rise of uncertainty, tensions and conflicts. The conference noted the rise of  emerging powers and the futility of a single super power.

The conference  deliberated on steps to strengthen defence and security cooperation in the region in the European Community with a view to building a stronger and independent Europe. This is in  response to the new United States of America foreign policy. The Russia – Ukraine situation also took centre stage with world leaders calling for the use of diplomatic engagements to end the conflict. The conference  also put under the spotlight the peace and security situation in Africa. The deliberations covered the civil war in Sudan and the situation in Gaza as well as the recurring climate change induced natural disasters and the accompanying humanitarian crises. The conference  highlighted the need to adhere to the dictates of the United Nations Charter,  the provisions of international law,  use of diplomacy in resolving conflicts and promotion of democracy.

The Honourable Minister also participated in the breakfast meeting held in honour of women in leadership positions which reaffirmed the critical and unique contribution of women to peacebuilding processes.

Speaking on the sidelines of the Conference, Minister Muchinguri Kashiri highlighted that the implications on  Zimbabwe and the African region are not spared from the shifting geopolitical landscape and its impact on peace and security, climate change, conflict and related humanitarian crises. The conference gives Zimbabwe the opportunity to engage and re-engage with other countries with the view to forging partnerships, promoting international peace and security. This is in line with His Excellency President ED Mnangagwa’s policy on engagement and re-engagement and that Zimbabwe is indeed a friend to all and an enemy to none.