The government of Zimbabwe and the European Union on Wednesday held formal talks for the first time in 15 years, a break from the hostility that characterised President Robert Mugabe’s later years.
Speaking during the talks between EU officials and Zimbabwe government officials in Harare, EU Zimbabwe delegation head Timo Olkkonen said:
We hope that formal political dialogue will from now on become an integral part of the relations between the European Union and Zimbabwe.
This should provide a useful platform to exchange views on topics that are of common interest and identify areas where we can deepen our relationship.
It also provides a forum to a frank exchange of views on issues we might not agree upon and foster mutual understanding. Our commitment is to a relationship that we are building together, as partners.
A strengthened relationship between Zimbabwe and the EU holds promises of increased investment and trade opportunities. It also offers a way to strengthen governance, transparency and economic development.
Meanwhile, writing on Twitter, permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information, Ndavaningi Nick Mangwana said:
It is hoped that formal dialogue will from now on become an integral part of relations between the EU and Zimbabwe. This is a useful platform for an exchange of views on topics that are of common interest and to identify areas where parties can deepen relations.
Back to top