Britain’s new ambassador to Zimbabwe, Gill Lever, has pledged to strengthen trade, investment and diplomatic cooperation between the two countries, expressing optimism about the future of bilateral relations.

In her first remarks after arriving in Zimbabwe, Lever said she was determined to build a modern partnership based on mutual respect, honest dialogue and practical cooperation.

“I arrive in Zimbabwe with a real sense of optimism about what our two countries can achieve together, and with a determination to listen and learn,” she said.

Lever, who previously visited Zimbabwe in the 1990s while working on peacekeeping training with the British Military Advisory and Training Team, said she was delighted to return.

She identified trade and investment, cooperation on international challenges through the United Nations Security Council, and support for Zimbabwe’s ambition to become mine-free by 2030 as key priorities.

“There is real momentum in the UK-Zimbabwe relationship, built not only on our shared interests but on the strong people-to-people ties that form a living bridge between our countries,” she said.

Lever also pledged to travel across Zimbabwe, engage communities and champion opportunities for women and girls.

The ambassador said she hoped to leave the relationship stronger by the end of her posting, with both countries understanding and trusting each other more.

“My ambition is simple: to continue to build a modern, respectful partnership, based on honest conversations and practical cooperation, and to leave our living bridge stronger than I found it,” she said.

Her remarks signal a focus on expanding practical cooperation while strengthening longstanding people-to-people links between Britain and Zimbabwe.