On February 10, 2011, Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said in Harare that China is ready to further build up political trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation and uplift the level of friendly cooperation with Zimbabwe.

In a written statement delivered upon his arrival at the Harare International Airport, Yang emphasized that China-Zimbabwe friendly cooperative relations have been developing steadily and have withstood the tests of the time and fluctuating international situation.

He reaffirmed China attaches importance to developing ties with Zimbabwe and deems it a good friend, good brother and good partner. "China is ready to work with Zimbabwe to further enhance political mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation and steadily elevate our friendship and cooperation."

Yang said he looked forward to exchanging in-depth views with Zimbabwean Foreign Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi and other leaders on bilateral ties and issues of common concern. "With concerted efforts of both sides, this visit will produce positive results and take China-Zimbabwe friendship and cooperative relations to a higher level," he said.

At the invitation of Zimbabwean Foreign Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, Yang, who is leading an 11-member delegation, arrived in Harare by chartered plane on the evening of February 10 for a two-day goodwill visit.