ZANZIBAR: ZANZIBAR President Hussein Mwinyi has called for enhanced relations between Zanzibar’s Stone Town and Mali’s ancient city of Timbuktu, emphasising the shared historical and cultural significance of these United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage sites.
President Mwinyi made the appeal during a meeting at the Zanzibar State House with Mali’s new Ambassador to Tanzania, Madou Diallo, who was in Zanzibar for an official introduction and to familiarise himself with his new role.
Highlighting the importance of the Stone TownTimbuktu connection, President Mwinyi expressed admiration for the recent political and security improvements in Mali.
He emphasised that strengthening cooperation between Tanzania and Mali is crucial.
“The ongoing peace efforts in Mali present a valuable opportunity to expand our collaboration into new areas, including cultural and economic diplomacy,” President Mwinyi said.
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He also noted the potential benefits of establishing trade relations between Mali and Tanzania, which would create opportunities for business communities and investors in both countries.
Ambassador Diallo agreed, underscoring the significance of inter-African relations for the continent’s development.
He pointed out that the legacy of the leaders who fought for African independence continues to guide the importance of these connections.
“There are many avenues for economic cooperation between Mali and Tanzania, especially now that peace has been restored,” Ambassador Diallo stated.
The meeting underscored a mutual interest in fostering closer ties and exploring new avenues for collaboration between the two historic cities.