The European Union’s Managing Director for Africa, Mr Koen Vervaeke, has encouraged Zimbabwe to continue on the path of reform and engagement in order to enhance not only relations between Brussels and Harare, but also the livelihoods of Zimbabweans.
Speaking after an intense working visit in Zimbabwe’s capital over the weekend, Mr Vervaeke said: “Based on extensive discussions with my interlocutors, we hope that the commitment to take the reform process in Zimbabwe forward and to address the violent events of the recent past will translate into tangible action. Implementing political and economic reforms is crucial for the country to enter into a positive trajectory, and a broad national consensus would cement internal support. Progress on the reforms will also offer space for a strengthened partnership with the EU.”
In his discussions with Zimbabwean counterparts, Mr Vervaeke also engaged on matters of significant concerns regarding the country’s situation, particularly in terms of addressing the consequences of Cyclone Idai and the food security crisis. The EU is engaged in support for both.
During his visit, Mr Vervaeke met with the Minister of Justice, Hon. Ziyambi Ziyambi, Ambassador James Manzou, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Virginia Mabhiza, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Justice, MDC President Nelson Chamisa, the Human Rights Commission and representatives of Non-Governmental Organisations, trade unions and the diplomatic community.