President Samia Suluhu Hassan has reaffirmed Tanzania's commitment to a non-aligned foreign policy, saying the country will continue to engage with all global powers without taking sides in geopolitical or ideological rivalries.
Speaking to journalists accompanying her on a state visit to Moscow, President Samia said Tanzania's foreign policy remains guided by national interests, with the country seeking economic opportunities and partnerships from all regions of the world.
She stressed that Tanzania would continue to work with partners from Europe, the United States, China, Russia and Asia on the basis of mutual benefit and respect.
"Europe remains one of our key trading partners, importing many of our products while we also import goods from them. The United States is another major partner, leading as a source of tourists to Tanzania and home to more than 420 companies operating across various sectors in our country. The US is also a significant investor in Tanzania," she said.
The President noted that Tanzania's relationship with Russia had experienced periods of limited engagement due to international sanctions and shifts in global politics, as well as changes in Tanzania's own political environment.
"Today, however, we do not choose whom to work with. We are bringing everyone together and working with all partners for the benefit of Tanzania," she said.
President Samia explained that modern economic diplomacy requires governments to create opportunities for investors from different parts of the world, regardless of geopolitical divisions. She said Tanzania's development agenda depends on attracting investment, expanding trade and strengthening cooperation with a wide range of international partners.
The Head of State also highlighted the strategic projects and economic ties linking Tanzania with Western nations, while explaining the factors that contributed to reduced engagement with Russia since the 1980s.
She emphasized that strengthening relations with Russia does not mean abandoning Tanzania's long-standing partnerships with Western countries, whose investments continue to play a major role in the country's economy.
According to President Samia, Tanzania's approach is rooted in pragmatism and economic diplomacy, aimed at ensuring the country benefits from opportunities offered by all global partners while maintaining its long-standing principle of non-alignment.
Her remarks come as Tanzania continues to expand its international partnerships in pursuit of investment, trade, tourism and technology transfer, positioning itself as an open and reliable partner on the global stage.
