By Staff Reporter
NEWLY appointed US ambassador to Zimbabwe, Pamela Tremont says chances for Zimbabwe to achieve economic prosperity are almost impossible in the absence of vibrant democratic institutions.
Addressing journalists on her inaugural media engagement event Thursday, the top envoy said economic prosperity for Zimbabwe can only be attained within the realm of democracy.
“But broad based economic prosperity is impossible without democratic institutions, good public health, and regional security. The United States supports these things, because they are critical elements for Zimbabweans chart their own future.
“In my conversation with President Emmerson Mnangagwa ,I offered to collaborate on improving the investment climate in Zimbabwe to expand economic opportunities for people and communities , forge stronger business linkages , and attract investors to look closely at Zimbabwe’s educated labor force and long term growth potential,” she said.
Tremont said she could not work alone in attracting investors and implored the government and people of Zimbabwe to share their story that the nation is a good business partner that combats corruption; provides certainty in regulatory, monetary and tax policy, and enjoys unbiased rule of law.
The top envoy said Zimbabwe has a rich history, enormous human talent and abundant natural resources.
“It shows promise as a great leader in Southern Africa and a vibrant participant in global conversations, and the United States seeks to partner with Zimbabwe to confront global challenges, such as climate change , pandemic response and conflict.
“Zimbabwe’s potential is limitless. We look forward to deepening our partnership to advance our mutual interests,” she said.
Who is Pamela Tremont? According to the United States Department of State, Ms. Pamela Tremont is a career member of the Senior Foreign Service, class of Minister-Counselor. Her most recent position was Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Stockholm, Sweden, where she also served as Chargé d’Affaires for 18 months.
Previously, Ms. Tremont held roles as Assistance Coordinator and then Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv, Ukraine. She was also Deputy Chief of Mission at the U.S. Embassy in Nicosia, Cyprus, and has held positions as Deputy Director for NATO Policy in the Bureau of European and Eurasian Affairs, Political/Economic Counselor at the U.S. Embassy in Lusaka, Zambia, and Political Military Officer at the U.S. Embassy in London, United Kingdom.
With three decades of experience as a career diplomat, Ms. Tremont has a proven track record of leadership and a wealth of experience across various regions and substantive areas, making her a well-qualified candidate to serve as U.S. Ambassador to Zimbabwe.
Her other assignments include representing the State Department as a student at the National Defense University, serving as Political Military Officer at the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Turkey, working as a Desk Officer for South Africa in the Bureau of African Affairs, and acting as a Watch Officer in the State Department’s Operations Center. She has also been posted to assignments in Port Louis, Mauritius, and Calgary, Canada.
Ms. Tremont earned her B.A and M.A degrees from Baylor University and has received multiple State Department performance awards, as well as the U.S. Army Commander’s Award for Civilian Service. She speaks French and Turkish.
