On February 6, the handover ceremony of China-aided Zimbabwe High Performance Computer Centre（HPC Centre） was held at the University of Zimbabwe. Minister of Local Government, Public Works and National Housing Mr. Ignatius Chombo, Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Science and Technology Development Mrs. Oppah Muchinguri, Minister of ICT, Postal and Courier Services Mr. Supa Mandiwanzira, Minister of State for Harare Provincial Affairs Mrs. Miriam Chikukwa, Chinese Ambassador Mr. Lin Lin, Commercial and Economic Counselor of the Chinese Embassy Mr. Li Yaohui, Vice-President of the Inspur Group Mr. Huang Gang, and over 300 other guests attended the ceremony.

In his speech, Ambassador Lin Lin expressed warm congratulations for the launch of the HPC Centre, which made Zimbabwe the 4th African country to have its own HPC Centre, and marked an important start for the Chinese aid to Zimbabwe in the area of high-tech. He said that this is yet another example of the successful China-Zimbabwe economic cooperation. The successes in bilateral economic cooperation derive from close political ties and will also further strengthen the traditional friendship. Both at an important stage of national construction, China and Zimbabwe will enjoy many more new opportunities for cooperation and common development.

Ambassador Lin announced that at the invitation of Hon. Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko, Chinese State Councilor H.E. Yang Jiechi will pay a visit to Zimbabwe starting from 8th February. During this visit, H.E. Yang is to meet with President Mugabe and VP Mphoko to comprehensively exchange views on our current bilateral relations, to explore how to further promote our cooperation, and to discuss other issues of common interest.

Minister Muchinguri said in her welcome speech that the Centre will not only provide high technology for agriculture, mining and so on, but also contribute to the training and development of professionals in related sectors. She hoped that the Centre will play a key role in implementing the Zim-Asset. Minister Chombo expressed his thanks to China for assisting Zimbabwe to build this Centre as an all-weather friend.