Pakistan and Zimbabwe enjoy cordial and friendly relations since the independence of Zimbabwe on 18^th April 1980. Pakistan played a vital role in the freedom struggle of Zimbabwe against the apartheid Rhodesian regime. Since the top leadership of Zimbabwe was in exile in neighbouring Mozambique, Pakistan was instrumental in supporting the cause of freedom with finances, training and arms. It was in the aftermath of the independence of Zimbabwe that Pakistan’s mission in Maputo, Mozambique was moved to Harare, Zimbabwe as Pakistan’s then Ambassador Anwar Khan had before independence worked in close liaison with the exiled leadership of Zimbabwe African National Union – Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF) and ex-President Robert Gabriel Mugabe. Pakistan was one of the initial few nations that recognized and established diplomatic relations with the newly independent state.

Both states after the formal establishment of bilateral relations began cooperation in various fields in diverse sectors. Many Pakistani professionals adopted Zimbabwe as their new home and became part of nation building. They came as doctors, teachers and defence forces personal from Pakistan under various MoUs between the two countries. Pakistani professionals played a significant role in the development of the newly independent state of Zimbabwe. The Government and the people of Zimbabwe thus remain appreciative of the assistance extended during the liberation struggle and the contributions made by Pakistan for the new state.

One of the most significant contributions from Pakistan to Zimbabwe was the establishment of the infrastructure related to Air Force of Zimbabwe. Air Marshal Azim Daudpota, a decorated officer of the Pakistan Air Force was therefore credited to be the first non-white Air Chief of Air Force of Zimbabwe. He along with a number of officers from the Pakistan Air Force contributed in the formative years of the Air Force of Zimbabwe and this cooperation continues till date. Therefore, the Government and the people of Zimbabwe hold the Government and the people of Pakistan in high esteem.