Still concerned about the situation in Zimbabwe, the European Union reiterated on Friday 19 February that it looks forward to a political dialogue with the Zimbabwean authorities in order to restore more fruitful relations.
In a statement issued on behalf of the EU-27 by the High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, “the EU recalls the EU Council conclusions of 17 February 2020 (see EUROPE 12427/6) and notes with concern that the multifaceted and protracted crisis in Zimbabwe has further deepened”.
Accelerating political and economic reforms, respect for human rights, building confidence in the Rule of law and fighting corruption would go a long way to boost investor confidence, create a stable business climate and help Zimbabwe take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), the High Representative stresses.
The EU reiterates its readiness to support credible and sustainable economic and political reforms on the basis of concrete commitments by the Government of Zimbabwe.
It considers electoral reform as an important element in strengthening democracy in Zimbabwe and stands ready to continue its support in this area, in line with the recommendations made by the EU Election Observation Mission in 2018. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)