President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Saturday expressed his gratitude to Southern African Development Community (Sadc) leaders for supporting Zimbabwe in the face of western-imposed sanctions.
Mnangagwa made these remarks at the opening of the 44th SADC Summit, held at the new Parliament Building in Mt Hampden.
The sanctions, imposed over two decades ago, were a response to Zimbabwe's controversial land reform programme, which saw the expropriation of farms from white farmers and a violent crackdown against opposition supporters.
Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe has been unfairly punished for reclaiming its land.
"As the people of Zimbabwe, we thank you, Sadc, for bearing with us the burdens imposed on us by illegal sanctions for the past 24 years, simply because we claimed our land," he said.
He highlighted the resilience of Zimbabweans and praised the solidarity shown by Sadc nations throughout the challenging period.
Mnangagwa, who takes over as Sadc chairperson at this summit, also emphasised the significance of the bloc's history in transforming the region from one of racial segregation and oppression to one of peace, security, and prosperity.
"The historic facts of Sadc are that it ushered in an era of marked transformation in the region from a past characterized by segregation and brutal racial oppression.
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“Now, we enjoy peace, security, and prosperity in our respective countries," he said.
Mnangagwa said Sadc has improved regional integration.
"Sadc has enabled integration and has improved the quality of life for our people. Zambians and the people of Zimbabwe are humbled to join your excellencies and esteemed delegations in celebrating these milestones we have achieved,” he added.
He concluded his address by reiterating the importance of unity within the region.
"United we stand, and united we continue to march forward toward a more prosperous future for our great region," Mnangagwa declared.
