On July 15, 2019, Assistant Foreign Minister Chen Xiaodong met with outgoing Zimbabwean Ambassador to China Paul Chikawa.

Speaking positively of Paul Chikawa's contributions to boosting the development of China-Zimbabwe relations during his term of office, Chen Xiaodong hoped that he will continue to care for and support the cause of China-Zimbabwe friendship in the future. Paul Chikawa spoke highly of Zimbabwe-China relations, thanked the Chinese side's strong support during his tenure, and expressed that he will be committed to promoting Zimbabwe-China friendship as always.