A 48-member Russian delegation arrived in Harare on Sunday for bilateral meetings to implement investment proposals between Zimbabwe and Russia, The Herald reported on Monday.

The delegation comprises 31 businesspeople plus 17 journalists from Russian newspapers, television and radio stations.

Russian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Oleg Scherbak said the delegation on a week-long visit was keen to explore investment opportunities in the country. "These investors have various business interests ranging from transport, power and mining to tourism, telecommunications and agriculture," he said.

"The Russian journalists will meet local journalists from various media houses and will have an opportunity to share and exchange ideas. They will also have an opportunity to move around the country and establish the truth behind the negative publicity that Zimbabwe is currently receiving from some Western countries," said Scherbak.

He said another purpose of the visit was to select local journalists who would engage in similar programs in Russia.

"So far, over 32 local journalists have forwarded their applications, but we will only consider eight for selection. We will also look for local journalists who will further their studies in Russia and this will help to strengthen ties between the two countries," he said.

Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe public relations manager Kumbirai Nhongo said Zimbabwe would gain from the Russians' expertise and experience.

"The week-long visit by the Russian delegation will help local journalists and business organizations also have a lot to benefit from the Russians," he said, adding that there would be ample opportunity for Zimbabweans to form business partnerships with the visitors.

Source: Xinhua