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The European Union (EU) on Wednesday extended €75 million (approximately US$81 million) to Zimbabwe as part of its efforts to help the southern African nation address the impacts of climate change and foster socio-economic development.
The agreement was signed in Harare by Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Mthuli Ncube, and the EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann.
This funding represents the second phase of the EU’s €148 million (US$160 million) allocation to the Zimbabwe Multi-Annual Indicative Programme (2021-2024).
During the signing ceremony for four financing agreements, Ncube detailed that the funds will support various initiatives: €26 million for agri-value chain development, €26 million for biodiversity enhancement, €16 million for transparent and accountable governance, and €7 million for gender and women’s economic empowerment. Said Ncube:
<blockquote>
Zimbabwe remains grateful for the EU support, and today marks another milestone in our cooperation. The four financing agreements will be channelled towards implementation of the Agri-Value Chain Development in Zimbabwe, Biodiversity enhancement for resilience building in Zimbabwe, Transparent &amp; Accountable Governance in Zimbabwe and Gender Equality and Women’s Economic Empowerment in Zimbabwe.
Support will be channelled towards Zimbabwe’s green economic growth through climate-smart agriculture, agri-food value chain development and renewable energy promotion. The project will be implemented through partnerships with non-governmental organisations, and international organisations.
The continued support to our agriculture and renewable energy sectors is commendable, as we seek to build and strengthen resilient and climate-proof agricultural systems.
To this end, Government welcomes the Team Europe Initiative on “Greener and Climate-Smart Agriculture”, which strives to unlock the potential of the agricultural sector through an environmentally conscious productive approach, based on climate-smart, agro-ecological, reducing vulnerability and increasing resilience through adaptation.
</blockquote>
Kirchmann said the financing aims to accelerate the green transition by supporting agri-value chains, investing in renewable energy for agriculture, conserving biodiversity, and enhancing community resilience. Said Kirchmann:
<blockquote>
By aligning the EU’s Global Gateway priorities with Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1, we are addressing immediate needs while empowering Zimbabweans especially women and youth to build a resilient society and economy.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

The European Union gave €75 million to Zimbabwe to help with climate change and development. Some of the money will go towards agriculture, biodiversity, governance, and women's empowerment. The funding aims to promote green agriculture and renewable energy. The EU wants to support Zimbabwe's development and make the country more resilient to climate change. Both Zimbabwe and the EU are working together to build a stronger and greener economy for the future.

EU Extends €75 Million In Aid To Zimbabwe

The European Union Delegation in Zimbabwe hosted a high-profile EU Private Sector Dialogue Seminar in Harare, highlighting key opportunities for trade and investment between Zimbabwe and the EU.
According to an EU <a href="https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/zimbabwe/european-union-supports-private-sector-more-trade-and-investment_en">Press Release</a>, the event brought together representatives from EU businesses with a presence in Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe private sector players, key Zimbabwean private sector organizations (CZI, ZNCC, WABAZ, NBCZ), banker associations (BAZ), investment promotion agency (ZIDA), and trade promotion agency (ZimTrade) for a discussion aimed at unlocking Zimbabwe’s economic potential through enhanced EU-Zimbabwe collaboration.
In his address, Ambassador of the European Union H.E. Jobst von Kirchmann said:
<blockquote>
We are committed to deepening our economic partnership with Zimbabwe through more trade and investment based on the EU – Zimbabwe Economic Partnership Agreement and our Global Gateway initiative.
Today’s seminar underscores our collective efforts to overcome challenges and seize opportunities for sustainable development and mutual prosperity.
Together, we strive to create an environment conducive to investment, innovation, and inclusive growth in Zimbabwe.
</blockquote>
Many participants were unaware of the full benefits offered by the existing EU-ESA Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA), which is aimed at boosting trade between the EU and Zimbabwe and Zimbabwe’s export potential. It offers duty-free access to the vast EU market.
The event also shed light on the EU’s ambitious Global Gateway initiative, a plan designed to unlock €150 billion in public and private investments in Africa.
Zimbabwe has already benefited from certain Global Gateway investments such as the Kariba dam rehabilitation.
EU large-scale sovereign lending is currently on hold because of Zimbabwe’s arrears of US$17,7 billion. However, there is a range of financial instruments available through Development Financial Institutions (DFIs) like the European Investment Bank (EIB) to support private sector investments in Zimbabwe.
The EU said these instruments offer de-risking guarantees for private sector investments, making Zimbabwean projects more attractive to European investors.
Detailed information was provided on the EIB’s successful €40 million Private Sector Facility, including eligible sectors and project qualification criteria, which will be useful as there are plans for other future private sector facilities.
Representatives from CABS, First Capital Bank, and NMB Bank, beneficiaries of the EIB facility credit lines, were present to answer questions from potential borrowers.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

EU Delegation In Zim Hosts EU-Private Sector Dialogue Seminar In Harare

<div>The Government of Zimbabwe, through the Minister of  Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Ziyambi Ziyambi, has accused the European Union Election Observer Mission (EU EOM) of going beyond its mandate.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Responding to the EU EOM final report on the 23-24 August harmonised elections at a press conference in Harare on Saturday, Ziyambi said the EU election observers strayed from their mandate by dictating to Zimbabwe how the country’s institutions and legislative framework should be structured.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Ziyambi criticised the EU EOM final report that was presented the by mission’s head, Fabio Massimo Castaldo online from Brussels, Belgium, saying it was biased towards the opposition. Said Ziyambi:</div>
<blockquote>
<div>Observers come to observe. So, when observers meet a group of people who didn’t follow the due process of satisfying the requirements of the law in terms of their gatherings, they simply observe and take note of what that particular individual has said.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>Likewise, if they meet a group of people that are complaining that the other side is doing this, whether that complaint borders on an illegality on the act of the other party, they will simply note it. That is what observation is all about.</div>
</blockquote>
<div>He said election observers should not be confused with election monitors. Said Ziyambi:</div>
<blockquote>
<div>So, as Government, we are actually surprised that observers think that they are actually monitors, or they are here to change our laws.</div>
</blockquote>
<div>Presenting the mission’s final report on the elections on Friday, Castaldo said the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission’s (ZEC) and the judiciary’s perceived political bias, as well as the actions of the Forever Associates of Zimbabwe (FAZ), undermined the credibility of the polls.</div>
<div> </div>
<div>The EU EOM report also criticised recent laws that it said eroded the separation of powers and limited civic and political freedoms. </div>
<div> </div>
<div>The laws noted in the report include the so-called Patriotic Act, the Private Voluntary Organisations (PVO) bill and the Maintenance of Peace and Order Act (MPOA) which the EU EOM said closed space for the exercise of freedoms of association, assembly, and expression.</div>
<div>
The EU EOM provided 21 recommendations, listing seven as priority which the mission said may bring comprehensive and meaningful electoral reforms.
The recommendations include; enhancing election organisation and management in Zimbabwe, maintaining ZEC and its staff independence, providing timely and thorough information to the public, and protecting the freedom to assemble.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>
</div>

Govt Says EU Election Observer Mission Strayed From Its Mandate

The opposition Mthwakazi Republic Party (MRP) has pleaded with the European Union Observer Mission to the 23 August elections to help it establish an independent Mthwakazi State, separate from Zimbabwe.
Early this year, MRP petitioned several institutions, among them the EU, as it sought 20 000 signatures of people from the Matabeleland region in a bid to push for Mthwakazi State “restoration”.
MRP president Mqondisi Moyo directed part of his speech during a rally at Bulawayo’s Stanley Square last week to the EU observers who attended the rally, asking them to assist Mthwakazi attain self-rule. Said Moyo:
<blockquote>
This petition is inspired by the standing resolution of the UN (United Nations) with regard to the autonomy and self-determination of all minority groups whose human rights are being denied and their dignity trampled on by their majority ethnic groups anywhere in the world.
We are a proud and law-abiding nation that was established by King Mzilikazi Khumalo bringing together many ethnic groups and creating a sense of singular nationhood among them, called Mthwakazi Kingdom State.
</blockquote>
He said before the merging of Matabeleland and Mashonaland to create present-day Zimbabwe, there existed a Mthwakazi State.
Moyo said the colonisation of Mthwakazi in the late 19th century was separate from Mashonaland or Zimbabwe because it was still a sovereign State when the latter was colonised.
He told EU observers that the British Crown also legalised the continued occupation of Mthwakazi illegally by proclaiming the Matabeleland Order-in-Council on July 19, 1894. The MRP leader said:
<blockquote>
In 1980, using the same Order-in-Council, the British Crown and government decolonised Mashonaland to create the Republic of Zimbabwe, and simultaneously transferred to them the mandate to rule Mthwakazi by conquest to a black majority supremacy regime.
When this regime came into power in 1980 within two years it started to train an army to kill unarmed civilians in Mthwakazi without any provocation or declaration of war, by creating the so-called “dissidents problem”.
The number of people killed was officially reported to be at least 20 000 civilians.
</blockquote>
Moyo said Mthwakazi had suffered 130 years of occupation, dehumanisation and oppression.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

MRP Courts EU Over Mthwakazi State "Restoration"

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Zimbabwe has pledged to be impartial and not to interfere with the country’s electoral process in its observation of the 23 August Harmonised Elections.
The Chief Observer of the EU EOM, Fabio Massimo Castaldo, said they will not make any statement on Zimbabwe’s elections until all processes are completed. He said:
<blockquote>
In accordance with the Administrative Arrangement signed with the Zimbabwean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, we are here to deliver an independent and impartial assessment of the entire electoral process.
We will not correct possible shortcomings and we will not endorse the results or make any other statement about the quality of the process until respective stages are completed.
Zimbabwe and its people can count on our commitment to work undeterred and professionally as promised. These are the elections of the Zimbabwean people.
</blockquote>
Added the EU EOM Chief Observer:
<blockquote>
Our mandate is to assess all aspects of the electoral process and to analyse the extent to which these elections comply with international and regional standards for elections, as well as with Zimbabwean law.
These standards are not imposed by the EU EOM. They are signed by Zimbabwe as part of Zimbabwe’s commitment to democratic processes.
We are independent in our work. The EU EOM sees the deployment of the mission in the spirit of partnership in achieving common goals.
The EU is to committed to accompanying the Zimbabwean people throughout the process”, underlined the Chief Observer.
Following the deployment of our core team on 8 July and our 46 long-term observers earlier this week, I will come to Zimbabwe as soon as possible to learn also first-hand about the ongoing process for the 2023 Harmonised Elections.
For election day our mission will be joined by 44 short-term observers, a delegation from the European Parliament and diplomats, accredited to the Republic of Zimbabwe.
The EU EOM is expected to comprise over 150 observers from all 27 EU member states, plus Canada, Norway, and Switzerland.
</blockquote>
Castaldo said the EU EOM will present a preliminary statement to the Zimbabwean authorities and to the Zimbabwean people some two days after the elections
He said the EU observers will remain in Zimbabwe after election day to observe also the post-election environment.
The EU EOM will then deliver a final report with recommendations about two months after the elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

EU Election Observation Mission To Zimbabwe Pledges Impartiality, Non-interference

The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) in Zimbabwe has started its work.
EU EOM Chief Observer Fabio Massimo Castaldo, a Member of the European Parliament, said:
<blockquote>
The deployment of this mission is a strong sign of Zimbabwe’s and the EU’s commitment to supporting genuine and transparent elections.
We are here to achieve common goals with the people and the institutions of Zimbabwe.
We will observe and analyse elections, and our tested methodology ensures that there won’t be any interference in the process by our side.
</blockquote>
The EU EOM’s mandate is to conduct an independent, impartial and comprehensive analysis of the entire election process, before, on and after the election day. Said Chief Observer Castaldo:
<blockquote>
EU observers will also focus on the level playing field for contesting candidates and parties, the electoral administration, the campaign environment, the conduct of traditional and social media, voting, counting and the tabulation of results.
We will remain in the country well beyond election day to observe the post-electoral environment.
</blockquote>
The EU said that a core team of 11 analysts arrived in Zimbabwe on 8 July 2023 and they will be joined by 46 long-term observers and 44 short-term observers.
On election day the mission will be supplemented across the country by locally recruited short-term observers, drawn from embassies, and a delegation from the European Parliament.
The EU EOM comprises on election day over 150 observers from EU member states as well as Canada, Norway and Switzerland.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

EU Election Observation Mission In Zimbabwe Commences Work

The European Union (EU) has given Zimbabwe two years to grow tobacco sustainably or a ban would be imposed on the southern African country’s fourth largest foreign currency earner after gold, platinum and diaspora remittances.
The EU buys tobacco worth US$150 million yearly from Zimbabwe.
Speaking to <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/zim-faces-new-tobacco-ban-threat/">Business Times</a>, Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development Deputy Minister Davison Marapira, said:
<blockquote>
I am aware of plans afoot in the EU to ban, in the next two years, the buying of tobacco from countries that are producing tobacco unsustainably.
Thus, we will avert the risk of losing international markets and inadvertently improve grower returns.
</blockquote>
He said in 2011, the Government’s agriculture research unit, Kutsaga, developed and successfully tested more efficient tobacco-curing barns.
The barns reduce firewood use by 50% and, reduce the curing cycle to 5–6 days from 7–8 days, without compromising on tobacco quality.
Marapira said the technology has to be adopted by small-scale farmers to reduce deforestation.
Kutsaga chief executive officer Frank Magama said:
<blockquote>
Anti-tobacco sentiment has grown since the establishment of TRB compelling a strategic focus on research into alternative uses of tobacco and alternatives tobacco.
WHO FCTC presents an existential threat to the tobacco industry compelling a greater focus on research into alternative uses of tobacco and alternative plants to tobacco such as cannabis and hemp.
Concerns over climate change and the resultant shortening seasons and frequent droughts have taken centre stage.
Accordingly, TRB has dedicated itself to promoting the sustainable production of tobacco.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe has recorded the highest tobacco yield in its history as sales for the ongoing 2023 marketing season currently stands at 283 million kg, surpassing the previous record of 259 million kg achieved in the 2019 season.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Faces Tobacco Export Ban Threat From European Union

Zimbabwe has told the European Union to “observe” and not “monitor” the 23 August 2023 elections as the two parties signed an Administrative Arrangement (AA) that will see the latter deploy more than 150 election observers.
The signing of the agreement comes after the Government invited the EU to observe the upcoming elections.
Speaking after the signing of the agreement, acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Amon Murwira, <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/observe-not-monitor-elections-govt-lays-down-the-law-signs-agreement-with-eu/">said</a>:
<blockquote>
Since the advent of universal suffrage in 1980, it has been Zimbabwe’s practice to invite Foreign Governments and Organisations to observe its elections.
In line with this tradition, and the Governments Engagement and Re-Engagement Policy, the Government of Zimbabwe is, once again, inviting international observers to witness the people of Zimbabwe exercise their sovereign right to freely elect a President, Members of the Lower and Upper Houses of Parliament, and Local Government Representatives of their choice during these forthcoming Harmonized General Elections.
Among other international organisations, European Union is one of the entities invited to observe the upcoming Harmonised Elections.
An invitation was issued by the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe Cde. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa to the European Union to observe the elections from the pre-election stage right through elections to the post-election stage.
I want to say the government of Zimbabwe is inviting all entities to come and observe the harmonised elections.
The teams are however reminded that their purpose is solely to observe, not to monitor the election process.
</blockquote>
Murwira said the AA will facilitate cooperation and exchange between the Government of Zimbabwe and the European Union. He added:
<blockquote>
The EU EOM and its members will maintain strict impartiality, objectivity and independence in the conduct of their mandate.
All EU EOM observers shall respect the Code of Conduct in terms of the First Schedule of the Zimbabwe Electoral Act [Chapter 2:13).
</blockquote>
The EU will observe elections in Zimbabwe for a second time running under President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government after having previously been banned by late former President Robert Mugabe.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

European Union To Deploy Election Observers For Zimbabwe's General Elections

European Union (EU) ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst von Kirchmann has said there is still a negative perception about the southern African country that needs to be addressed to gain investor confidence from businesses in the EU.
Kirchmann said investors from the EU consider predictability, the state of infrastructure, and the ease of doing business, among other factors.
He made the remarks on Thursday at the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF) business conference. Kirchmann said:
The trade agreement we have is underused; there is room for more investment and l think that’s also what Zimbabwe wants.
<blockquote>
I hear we are open for business and there is a lot in the National Development Strategy 1.
As the EU, we would like Zimbabwe to succeed in that ambition…when I ask companies in Europe, I must say there is still a negative perception of Zimbabwe, which I think is important to work on.
Investors are looking for predictability, they want to know what they are getting themselves into; good infrastructure, a way to carry out financial transactions easily, and access to finance.
</blockquote>
The EU is an important market for Zimbabwean exports, accounting for a significant proportion of the country’s total export earnings.
Zimbabwe exports agricultural products such as tobacco, fresh produce (such as flowers and vegetables), and raw materials like minerals, as well as textiles, clothing, and footwear.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zimbabwe Should Address "Negative Perception" To Attract Investment – EU

The European Union (EU) on Tuesday, 28 February 2023, extended its sanctions on Zimbabwe by a year.
The EU said it will continue to closely follow developments in the country with particular attention to the human rights situation.
<a href="https://insiderzim.com/european-union-extends-sanctions-on-zimbabwe-by-a-year/">The Insider</a> reported that EU sanctions on Zimbabwe are an arms embargo and assets freeze against the Zimbabwe Defence Industries. A statement released by the EU reads in part:
<blockquote>
The remaining restrictive measures in place do not affect the people of Zimbabwe, its economy, foreign direct investments, or trade.
Zimbabwe continues to benefit from duty-free and quota-free access to its exports to the EU, while negotiations are ongoing to deepen the Eastern and Southern Africa (ESA) Economic Partnership Agreement.
There is significant potential in terms of investments and job opportunities, provided that the government promote political and economic reforms, facilitate a conducive and more predictable business environment, tackle corruption and foster respect for human rights and the rule of law.
Together with EU member states the EU will continue to support Zimbabwe’s National Development Strategy 1 in particular on (i) Gender equality and women empowerment and (ii) Greener and climate-smart agriculture, with over €400 million until 2025.
</blockquote>
The EU expressed reservations over the Data Protection Act, the Private Voluntary Organisations Amendment Bill and the envisaged “patriotic provisions” in the Criminal Law Amendment Bill.
The EU also expressed concern over the Zimbabwean government’s failure to implement the recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission of Inquiry and bring to account the perpetrators of violations that occurred in January 2019.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

European Union Extends Sanctions On Zimbabwe

The European Union (EU) has extended a €209 million (US$220 million) grant to Zimbabwe for women’s empowerment.
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/zimbabwe-gets-e209-million-eu-women-empowerment-grant/">ZimLive</a>, the grant has been extended to the country through the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development.
Women Affairs Minister Sithembiso Nyoni on Monday met with Team Europe Ambassadors to begin policy dialogue under the Team Europe Initiative on Gender.
Team Europe Initiative mobilises financial resources from all European Union member states and Switzerland.
In a joint statement with the EU, Minister Nyoni said the initiative will achieve considerable success in promoting equality for Zimbabwean women and girls. She said:
<blockquote>
The Team Europe Initiative on gender equality and women empowerment supports Zimbabwean women towards a society that is free of Gender Based Violence, where women can play an active role in their communities, in politics, and in decision-making processes.
The initiative will also mobilise financial resources to allow them to start their own businesses.
</blockquote>
EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst von Kirchman said:
<blockquote>
Gender equality is one of the core principles among the European Union’s founding values and is both a priority and a goal for Zimbabwe and the European Union.
</blockquote>
The grant is set to support provisions of the national constitution which provides for equal representation of women and men in all positions.
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Zim Gets €209 Million European Union Women Empowerment Grant

The European Union (EU) has condemned the assassination of Eswatini human rights lawyer Thulani Rudolph Maseko in his home country on 21 January 2023. The EU issued a statement that reads:
<blockquote>
Thulani Rudolph Maseko, human rights lawyer and Chairperson of the Multistakeholder Forum (MSF), was shot dead at his house on Saturday 21 January.
The European Union strongly condemns Mr Maseko’s assassination and looks forward to the results of the investigations already launched by the authorities to identify and prosecute those responsible for this brutal act.
The EU calls on the authorities to ensure the safety of all citizens, including political activists.
This tragic loss comes in a row of killings, arson attacks and other violent acts, which have destabilised the country over the past months.
Since June 2021, the EU, as a long-standing and reliable partner of the country, has followed with grave concern about the situation in Eswatini.
The EU urges the authorities to launch the comprehensive and inclusive dialogue as a matter of urgency and priority, on terms facilitated by SADC, towards national reconciliation, respect for human rights and the rule of law, and ultimately, lasting peace.
</blockquote>

European Union Condemns Assassination Of Eswatini Lawyer

European Union (EU) human rights envoy Eamon Gilmore has met ZANU PF and CCC party leaders where he urged them to work for a peaceful environment ahead of the 2023 general elections.
EU ambassador to Zimbabwe Jobst von Kirchmann on Thursday said Gilmore had met ZANU PF’s finance secretary Patrick Chinamasa and CCC leader Nelson Chamisa. He tweeted:
<blockquote>
EU special representative for human rights Eamon Gilmore met with the two main political parties, CCC and ZANU PF.
He recalled the importance of credible and peaceful 2023 elections and encouraged everyone to keep respectful and non-violent rhetoric.
</blockquote>
Gilmore is Ireland’s former Deputy Prime Minister, and former Foreign Affairs and Trade minister (2011- 14).
Since 2015, he has been the EU special envoy for the peace process in Colombia.
The EU recently pledged US$5.9 million to support the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to conduct a fair and credible election next year. Kirchmann said:
<blockquote>
A credible election will allow Zimbabwe to create a prosperous environment and will help the country to achieve its national development strategy.
When I presented my credentials to President Emmerson Mnangagwa in October, I asked him how the EU can support the electoral process next year. He suggested that we support ZEC.
I think it’s a good thing because the EU is committed to supporting Zimbabwe to hold credible and peaceful elections in 2023 and beyond.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004407/eu-envoy-meets-zanu-pf-ccc">NewsDay</a>

EU Envoy Meets ZANU PF, CCC Leaders

The European Union (EU) and the Government of Zimbabwe have signed two financial agreements amounting to €47 million under the Zimbabwe-European Union Cooperation.
€41 million will go towards improving health outcomes for the population of Zimbabwe while €6 million will go towards support for the Zimbabwean electoral process.
This was said by Finance and Economic Development Minister Mthuli Ncube while addressing the media at the signing ceremony in Harare on Monday morning. He said:
<blockquote>
Today marks another historic milestone in the relationship between the Government of Zimbabwe and the European Union, through the signature of two financing agreements on improving health outcomes for the population of Zimbabwe, and support to the Zimbabwean electoral process.
The two financial agreements constitute the 2022 Annual Action Plan for the support to Zimbabwe under the 2021- 2027 Multi-Annual Indicative Programme.
</blockquote>
EU Ambassador Jobst von Kirchmann said peaceful elections will be key in creating an environment conducive to national development. He said:
<blockquote>
Peaceful elections will be one of the key elements that will allow Zimbabwe to create a prosperous environment to make the national development strategy a reality.
Health is a fundamental human right in terms of the constitution of Zimbabwe, and the European Union is today proud to contribute to the realisation of that right.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/european-union-injects-e47-million-towards-zimbabwes-health-sector-elections/">The Herald</a>

EU Avails €47 Million For Zimbabwe's Health Sector, Elections

The European Union (EU) is ready for constructive engagement with Zimbabwe and to increase further investment in the private sector.
This was said by the EU’s new ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann when he presented his credentials to President Emmerson Mnangagwa on Wednesday.
Von Kirchmann replaced outgoing ambassador Timo Olkkonen, who served between 2018 and 2022.
Addressing journalists in Harare, Von Kirchmann said the EU was currently Zimbabwe’s fourth biggest trading partner and will support the southern African country in its quest to become a middle-income country by 2030. He said:
<blockquote>
My mission is clearly targeting constructive engagement with Zimbabwe.
… I think Zimbabwe has a very ambitious vision, the vision is the National Development Strategy 1 which wants to bring Zimbabwe towards an inclusive, empowered and prosperous middle-income country by 2030.
I think not only the European Union but also the member states of the EU stand ready to support it.
We have about 125 million euros of investment currently in the country which creates jobs obviously and I am happy that our bank, the European Investment Bank has opened a credit facility for the private sector.
I just had a meeting with them last week to see how we can enlarge that facility in the future, and also increase further investment in the private sector.
</blockquote>
The EU imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe in solidarity with Britain after Zimbabwe compulsorily acquired white-owned farms and some protected by BIPPAs to resettle landless blacks.
But after Britain exited the EU, the European bloc and Zimbabwe have since entered into formal dialogue to normalise relations. | <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2022/10/12/eu-dumps-confrontation-opts-for-dialogue-with-zim/">New Ziana</a>

European Union Ready To Support Zimbabwe

The Delegation of the European Union to Zimbabwe seeks to employ a Press and Information Officer (Group I) for the Delegation. The post is based at the Delegation offices in Harare. The incumbent will report to the Head of Political, Press and Information Section.
JOB CONTENT
<ul>
<li>Manage the public relations of the EU Delegation, including:</li>
<li>Preparation of press releases and relevant press materials in coordination with the respective sections.</li>
<li>Management of the website and the social media platforms of the Delegation</li>
<li>Provision of information to the public, related to the EU and related to activities of the Delegation of the EU in Zimbabwe, in close coordination with the Core Communications Team</li>
<li>Networking with the media, including set/up of events and maintenance of a database of media and cultural actors</li>
<li>Management of media enquiries on behalf of the Delegation.</li>
<li>Organisation of events related to press, culture and information and outreach of the Delegation in general.</li>
<li>Responsibility for the strategic planning and for the budget related to culture and information, as well as for related expenditures.</li>
<li>Development, of the visibility programme of the Delegation. in close coordination with the Head of Political Section and other Heads of Sections</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li>Support the internal communication, including:</li>
<li>Provision of reviews of media, on a daily and weekly basis for the Delegation.</li>
<li>Provision of specific press reviews on ad hoc basis for particular subjects.</li>
<li>Preparation of reports as requested, related to press, culture and information activities.</li>
<li>Organisation of the distribution of information material.</li>
<li>Assistance to the Head of Political, Press and Information Section for any other duties that may be required.</li>
<li>Contribution to any other tasks related to media, culture and information, upon request.</li>
<li>Contribution to any important visit from HQs for aspects related with media. 
 </li>
<li>Cultural Diplomacy 
 </li>
<li>Responsibility for the management of the Cultural Programme of the Delegation and coordination with Member States, including event management for the European Film Festival and other joint initiatives</li>
<li>Maintenance of relations with the Cultural Centers, particularly those of Member States.</li>
</ul>
JOB REQUIREMENTS
– Must be allowed to work in Zimbabwe.
– Must be able to display an excellent political understanding of Zimbabwe and wider current affairs.
– Postgraduate university degree in social sciences or Political sciences with a focus on media/communications or postgraduate degree in Journalism.
– Experience in the field of art and culture will be considered an asset.
– At least five years continuous of relevant experience in the field of media, journalism, or public relations
– Excellent English: reading, writing, and speaking. Knowledge of other official languages of the European Union Member States will be considered an asset.
– Proven extensive user experience with MS Office package or similar as well as with internet-based services.
– Knowledge of the European Union and its institutions is required.
– Good knowledge of Zimbabwe’s media sector is an important asset.
– Excellent team player and should be able to develop contacts in various sectors of society.
– Excellent organisational skills and analytical qualities.
DURATION:
Indefinite contract
REMUNERATION:
According to the salary scales of the European Union and relevant experience.
Interested applicants should send their applications by hand to the attention of the Head of Administration:
Delegation of the European Union to Zimbabwe
1 Norfolk Road, P.O. Box MP620
Mt Pleasant, Harare,
Zimbabwe.
Applications should contain the following: (1) A letter of motivation; (2) Curriculum Vitae using the EU CV; (3) Supporting documents providing proof regarding the educational background and professional experience; (4) Three references. The closed envelope containing all supporting documents should clearly mention “Vacancy Press and Information Officer”.
The EU CV template can be downloaded from the EU delegation to Zimbabwe website <a href="https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/zimbabwe_en">https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/zimbabwe_en</a> . Candidates who have not submitted the required supporting documents will not be considered.
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The closing date for receiving applications will be 12.00 hours, on Monday, 27 September 2021.  (Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for a written test and possible interview).
<h4>More: <a href="https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/zimbabwe/103843/press-and-information-officer_en">European Union</a></h4>

JOB ALERT: EU Office In Harare Is Hiring A Press and Information Officer

A third European Union-Zimbabwe Political Dialogue Meeting took place in Harare on 10 June 2021.
The meeting allowed for the continuation of discussions on topics that are of common interest and are priorities in EU-Zimbabwe relations: human rights, democratisation, rule of law and good governance; economic developments and reforms, the investment climate and implementation of our free trade agreement, the Economic Partnership Agreement; development cooperation, humanitarian assistance and global and regional partnerships. The discussions also included exchanges on Zimbabwe’s COVID-19 response as well as the EU’s support and assistance.
The EU and its Member States expressed concern over a curtailed democratic space in Zimbabwe over the last year, and reports of continued violations of human rights such as reported cases of enforced disappearances and lengthy unjustified detentions, arrests of journalists and other limitations to the freedom of expression and the media. The EU urged the Government to conduct impartial investigations of human rights violations and bring perpetrators to justice.
The EU acknowledged Government’s efforts to stabilise the economy and highlighted that economic reforms and the fight against corruption are paramount for Zimbabwe, in particular, to mitigate the humanitarian crisis, and improve the socio-economic situation.
The European Union reaffirmed that it stands ready to continue to support the Zimbabwean people in the current challenges and that entering an economically, socially and environmentally sustainable growth path requires structural reforms by Government.
Today’s discussion was conducted in an open, cordial and constructive atmosphere. We look forward to continuing the exchanges within the framework of the formal Political dialogue.
The EU-Zimbabwe Political Dialogue was co-chaired by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Honourable Ambassador Frederick Shava, and the EU Head of Delegation to Zimbabwe, Ambassador Timo Olkkonen, who was joined by the Heads of Mission, Ambassadors of France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal as well as the Chargés d’Affaires of Romania, Spain, and Sweden and the First Secretary of the Embassy of Belgium.

EU Statement On The 3rd EU-Zimbabwe Political Dialogue Meeting {Full Text}

A political analyst, Rashweat Mukundu said the EU had demonstrated its sincerity in dialoguing with Harare, but the bloc will not change its stance on sanctions until the ZANU PF-led government reforms.
The EU early this year extended by a further year sanctions it imposed on Harare, initially in 2002, arguing that they would remain in place until Harare stops trampling on human rights.
Mukundu noted that Zimbabwe’s rhetoric on reforms does not match what is taking place on the ground, hence the EU has continued to raise concern. He said:
<blockquote>The EU is setting a foundation for continued dialogue with Zimbabwe, but I don’t see the EU reneging on its position that government must respect human rights and adhere to constitutional provisions and reform some of its undemocratic policies.
There is no change of the EU looking aside when the government is committing abuses in the interest of promoting dialogue.
It is only giving the government an opportunity and showing they are sincere in their call for dialogue, but there has to be tangible action from the Zimbabwean authorities in terms of respecting human rights.
It’s not only a matter of talking but acting on the part of the Zimbabwean government on concerns the EU has been raised.
The issue is there a match on the ground in what the Zimbabwe government is saying and doing.
This comes after the EU said it cannot fully engage with Harare unless it institutes far-reaching political and economic reforms.</blockquote>
The EU diplomats held a meeting with government officials on Thursday. Zimbabwe was represented by Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister Frederick Shava while the EU head of delegation to Zimbabwe, Timo Olkkonen was joined by ambassadors of EU Member States, France, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Portugal, The Netherlands, Spain and Romania.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/06/no-reforms-no-ties-renewal-eu-tells-ed/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

'EU Sincere About Normalising Relations With Zimbabwe'

The European Union (EU) has warned President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s administration that the bloc cannot fully engage with Harare unless it institutes far-reaching political and economic reforms.
In a statement following a closed-door meeting between the government and representatives of the delegation of the European Union to Zimbabwe, the EU said it made it clear to Harare that respect for human rights was key for the normalisation of relations. The statement read in part:
<blockquote>The EU and its membership expressed concern over a curtailed democratic space in Zimbabwe over the last year and reports of continued violations of human rights such as reported cases of enforced disappearances, and lengthy unjustified detentions, arrests of journalists and other limitations to the freedom of expression and the media.
The EU urged government to conduct impartial investigations of human rights violations and bring perpetrators to justice.</blockquote>
At the meeting, which was held in Harare on Thursday, Zimbabwe was represented by Foreign Affairs and International Trade minister Frederick Shava while EU head of delegation to Zimbabwe, Timo Olkkonen was joined by ambassadors of EU Member States, France, Greece, Italy, Ireland, Portugal, The Netherlands, Spain and Romania.
The meeting allowed for the continuation of discussions on topics that are of common interest and are priorities in EU-Zimbabwe relations, among them, human rights, democratisation, rule of law and good governance, economic development and investment climate.
The EU early this year extended by a further year sanctions it imposed on Harare, initially in 2002, arguing that they would remain in place until the government stops rampant human rights abuses and a vicious clampdown on dissent.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2021/06/no-reforms-no-ties-renewal-eu-tells-ed/" rel="noopener" target="_blank">NewsDay</a></h4>

No Reforms, No Full Relations, EU Tells Mnangagwa

The European Union (EU) and the United States of America have both expressed concern over the Zimbabwean government’s failure to probe the disproportionate use of force by security personnel against civilians in January 2009.
In a statement posted on its Twitter handle, the EU in Zimbabwe demanded an end to impunity and the prosecution of human rights violators. <a href="https://twitter.com/euinzim/status/1351540312297115649" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">It said</a>:
<blockquote>Two years on, investigations are lacking and impunity continues to prevail on human rights violations perpetrated in #Zimbabwe in January 2019. #NoZIMpunity.</blockquote>
In a related development, the U.S. Embassy in Harare queried why Zimbabwe has not yet prosecuted and convicted the security forces accused of rape, torture, and killing civilians in January 2019. <a href="https://twitter.com/usembassyharare/status/1351469658243792896" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">It said in a tweet:</a>
<blockquote>Two years. When will Zimbabwe investigate, prosecute, and convict government security forces accused of rape, torture, and killing civilians in Jan 2019? Two years is too long to seek justice/answers/accountability.</blockquote>
Zimbabwe descended into anarchy characterised by the looting of businesses and barricading of roads in January 2019 after the government unilaterally hiked the price of fuel by over 150 per cent.
In response to the fuel riots, the government blocked the internet for several days and unleashed security forces on civilians resulting in the death of over 20 people and serious injuries to hundreds.
There were also allegations of some rogue members of the security services moving from door-to-door raping women who were too terrified to report the abuse for fear of victimisation.
The Zimbabwean government denied the reports insisting that “terrorists” and a “third force” were responsible for the violence.

EU, U.S. Demand Justice For Victims Of January 2019 State Brutality

The European Union (EU) has dismissed as baseless the Government of Zimbabwe’s claims that the country’s economy has been paralysed by what it calls illegal sanctions imposed by the economic bloc.
Posting on its Twitter handle, the EU in Zimbabwe said the sanctions, which it calls restrictive measures, only ban European companies from doing business with the Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI) and selling arms to Harare. The EU said:
<blockquote>The EU restrictive measures are a ban for European companies to do business with Zimbabwe Defence Industries and to sell arms to Zimbabwe. That’s all. The EU has not imposed anything else on Zimbabwe.
There is no evidence that the Zimbabwean economy is affected negatively by EU restrictive measures. There are no legal restrictions on EU investment entering Zimbabwe!</blockquote>
The EU further said the measures against Zimbabwe have no impact on general trade with Zimbabwe and also it stands ready to review its policies towards Zimbabwe when the southern African country shows it has the appetite to reform. The trading bloc added:
<blockquote>The EU restrictive measures have no impact on trade and the tariff and quota-free privileged access of goods from Zimbabwe to the EU market, granted by the Economic and Partnership Agreement (EPA) ratified in 2012.
The EU stands ready to review the whole range of its policies towards Zimbabwe at any moment to take into account the progress achieved in the country.</blockquote>

Sanctions Only Prohibit The Selling Of Weapons To Zimbabwe - EU

The European Union (EU) has expressed concern over what it considers to be Zimbabwe’s lack of appetite to undertake political and economic reforms.
In the chapter on Zimbabwe in its 2019 Annual Report on Human Rights And Democracy in the World, the EU said:
<blockquote>A year and a half after the 2018 elections, the government has shown little appetite to undertake political and economic reforms.
Moreover, the authorities’ recourse to security forces repression and the subsequent shrinking of democratic space and rampant corruption and mismanagement led to a serious deterioration of all socio-economic and humanitarian indicators.
Since January 2019, there has been a sharp increase in reported human rights violations. Beyond a series of intimidations against opposition supporters and activists, the year was marked by violent episodes of police brutalities (in January, August and November).
The recommendations issued in the Motlanthe report of the Commission of inquiry to investigate the violence against civilians in the post-election period, which resulted in the death of six people in August 2018, are still to be effectively addressed by the authorities.
Progress is also very slow in addressing the recommendations of the EU Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) and of the other election observation missions that were deployed in the country before the 2018 elections.
The human rights situation is further worsened by the ongoing economic and humanitarian crisis that resulted in a massive decrease of access to basic services for the population and is further worsening the situation of the most vulnerable communities.</blockquote>
<h4>More: <a href="https://eeas.europa.eu/delegations/zimbabwe/81030/eu-annual-report-human-rights-and-democracy-world-2019-zimbabwe_en" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">European Union</a></h4>

EU Chides Zimbabwe Over Repression, Corruption & Suffocation Of Democracy

The European Union (EU) has slammed the Zimbabwe government for what it considers a lack of respect for the rule of law.
In a statement posted on its Twitter handle on Friday evening, the EU called for the restoration of the rule of law and an end to impunity. The statement read:
<blockquote>This week’s events in #Zimbabwe show a lack of respect for rule of law, due process and constitutional rights: partisan deployment of security forces, arrests, disrespect of property rights, partial investigations, corruption and threats against journalists. #RuleOfLaw #NoZimpunity.</blockquote>
Earlier this week, the Minister of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage, Kazembe Kazembe accused three hospitalised MDC Alliance, Joanna Mamombe, Cecilia Chimbiri, and Netsai Marova for faking abductions. Kazembe said nothing concrete about the State’s duty to find the gunmen who abducted the three activists and sexually assaulted them.
Renowned journalist, Hopewell Chin’ono was threatened by the ruling ZANU PF party through its acting spokesperson, Patrick Chinamasa, for unearthing corrupt activities allegedly involving people close to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
On Thursday night, the military intervened in the dispute between MDC factions by seizing Harvest House, which serves as the MDC Alliance’s headquarters and handed over the building to Thokozani Khupe’s MDC-T.

EU Rebukes Zim Govt... Demands Respect For The Rule Of Law

Zimbabwe remains critically food insecure a situation that has been exacerbated by prolonged drought, erratic rains and an ailing economy, a report by Global Food Crisis Report Forecast (GFCRF) has revealed. According to Zim Morning Post, a joint report by the European Union, FAO, OCHA, UNICEF, USAID and WFP has estimated that 4.3 million rural Zimbabweans are in urgent need of food aid.
FAO Representative Jocelyn Brown Hall speaking about the food crisis in Zimbabwe said:
<blockquote>Measures to curb the further spread of COVID-19 have the potential to impact negatively on the food system in Zimbabwe, such as through restricted access to markets by both farmers and consumers, and a glut of perishable nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables. Deliberate measures are needed to prevent and mitigate against these.</blockquote>
Jocelyn Brown Hall’s sentiments were further confirmed by WFP country director Eddie Rowe who said:
<blockquote>Millions of Zimbabweans are already struggling to put food on the table, having faced prolonged drought and economic hardship for some time. It is imperative that we unite, to fight the COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe and provide urgent food assistance safely to prevent an already vulnerable population from slipping deeper into this hunger crisis,</blockquote>
WFP said it was mobilising<a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2020/04/09/united-nations-mobilising-us130-million-to-head-off-hunger-in-zimbabwe/">  $130 Million to help starving Zimbabweans</a>.
More: <a href="https://zimmorningpost.com/zimbabwe-rated-as-one-of-the-worlds-top-global-food-crises-in-new-united-nations-report/">Zim Morning Post </a>

Zimbabwe Remains In The Grip Of Severe Food Insecurity, 4.3 Million Rural Zimbabweans In Need Of Urgent Food Aid  UN

<blockquote>RESPONSE TO EU STATEMENT ON ITAI DZAMARA DISAPPEARANCE
Government has noted with concern a statement by the European Union published on their Twitter handle, in which they stated that Government should “shed light and serve justice” on the disappearance of Mr <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Itai_Dzamara" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Itai Dzamara</a>, who went missing in March 2015.
Since Mr Dzamara’s disappearance, a task force of skilled detectives was put in place to investigate the matter. Further, a reward of US$10000 from the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Republic_Police" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)</a> is on offer for information on Mr Dzamara’s whereabouts. The Police have regularly issued public appeals for information including in recent times.
They have also submitted more than 9 reports to the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/High_Court_of_Zimbabwe" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">High Court of Zimbabwe</a> in compliance with an order of that court. These reports are publicly available.
Government feels very strongly that no Zimbabwean should disappear without a trace and empathises with the Dzamara family in their quest for their loved one’s safe return.
To this Government, every Zimbabwean counts. It is therefore diplomatically unhelpful and misleading to insinuate that Government does not intend to shed light into Mr Dzamara’s disappearance as if it had a hand in it.
Government remains open to engagement with all diplomats accredited to Zimbabwe and provide clarity on any matter of mutual interest using agreed formal channels.
N. Mangwana Permanent Secretary 
MINISTRY OF INFORMATION, MEDIA AND BROADCASTING SERVICES</blockquote>
<img alt="Image" decoding="async" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/ESrzGY_XgAE5iGn?format=jpg&amp;name=medium"/>

FULL TEXT: Zimbabwe Govt Incensed By EU Remarks On Itai Dzamara's Disappearance

The government blocked Gweru mayor councillor Josiah Makombe from meeting the European Union ambassador Timo Olkkonen on Tuesday.
Officials from Midlands Provincial Affairs minister Larry Mavhima informed Makombe a few minutes before the scheduled meeting with Olkkonen that the government had not cleared it [the meeting].
Reports suggest that the government was afraid that the EU will fund projects in Gweru that will, in turn, boost the profile of the MDC Alliance-led council. Said Makombe:
<blockquote>Everything had been set for the meeting and actually all councillors had taken their seats in the parlour waiting for the arrival of the EU ambassador.
However, I got a call informing us that the meeting had not been cleared.
It was shocking. We had planned to reach out to the EU for funding of critical projects such as revamping our water system and revival of self-help projects for vulnerable members of our city.</blockquote>
During his visit to Gweru, Olkkonen toured Whawha prison to assess conditions at the facility.
Meanwhile, secretary for the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Ministry_of_Information,_Publicity_and_Broadcasting_Services" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services</a>, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Nick_Mangwana" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Nick Mangwana</a> said government blocked the meeting because it was not cleared by the Ministry Foreign Affairs Affairs.
<h4>More: <a href="https://www.thestandard.co.zw/2020/03/01/furore-govt-blocs-mayor-eu-envoy/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Standard</a></h4>

Govt Blocks Gweru Mayor From Meeting EU Ambassador

<blockquote>We note the recent EU council statement which vindicates the demands by the ordinary suffering Zimbabweans particularly on the issues that they want to be addressed so that the country can move forward.
The EU exhorts Harare to undertake and implement a comprehensive reform agenda, to engage in sincere and honest dialogue and to implement the recommendations of the Motlanthe Commission, which urged action to be taken on the rogue State security agents who callously murdered innocent citizens on August 1, 2018.
We also note that the EU statement raised concern over the suffering of the ordinary people and the deteriorating national situation which has greatly affected the livelihoods of the citizens.
The EU takes note of the shrinking democratic space and the endemic corruption by the well-heeled political elite as contributing factors to the humanitarian crisis in Zimbabwe.
It is pertinent to note that this vindicates our position, considering that we have already unveiled five key fights as part of the Agenda 2020 national programme, among them the fight against corruption and to restore livelihoods and dignity for the ordinary citizen.
As noted in the EU statement, deeper engagement with the outside world can only happen after the implementation of the shared values of the rule of law, democracy, human rights and good governance.
This means that Zimbabwe can only meaningfully engage externally once it deals with all these internal issues that are firmly within our control as a nation.
As a party, we reiterate that the EU council statement vindicates our position and the stance of ordinary Zimbabweans that only a sincere, honest and credible national dialogue and the implementation of a raft of comprehensive reforms can unlock vast opportunities that will poise our country for growth and enable Zimbabwe to take its rightful place among the family of nations.
#ThePeoplesGovernment.
Gladys Hlatywayo 
Secretary for International Relations 
Movement For Democratic Change</blockquote>

MDC: EU Vindicates The People’s Position {Full Text}

The EU has taken to task ED’s government over the continued human rights abuses and the slow pace of reforms, the Independent reports. The meeting was held a fortnight ago and the agenda was the continued human right violation and the continuous harassment of opposition parties in Zimbabwe.
EU ambassador to Zimbabwe Tim Olkkonen spoke to the publication about the meeting and said:
<blockquote>We raised our concerns on the overall human rights situation, particularly in 2019. We had discussions on some of the issues which include the excessive use of force by the security forces. We had differences in how we interpreted these events. We raised the slowness of reforms and what we hoped to have seen a faster pace both on the economic and political side. We also discussed the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Transitional_Stabilisation_Programme">transitional stabilisation programme (TSP</a>); I think the TSP envisages a faster pace of reforms.
It was a good discussion, very substantial. We had a very substantial agenda. We discussed political issues, human rights which we needed to discuss at these meetings, governance and the progress on economic reforms. It was a long meeting which lasted about five hours which tells you about the interest and the level of detail we went into. Of cause we couldn’t agree on everything. But all in all it was an in-depth discussion that we had. We raised the Mothlanthe Commission report, the EU Electoral Observer Mission report where we have not seen a lot of movement in implementation</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.theindependent.co.zw/2019/12/06/eu-takes-zim-govt-on-over-rights-abuses/">The Independent </a>

EU Takes Zim Govt To Task Over Human Rights Abuses

<blockquote>                                                            JOINT PRESS STATEMENT
The second Zimbabwe-European Union Political Dialogue Meeting took place in Harare on 21 November 2019.
The meeting provided for the continuation of a wide-ranging engagement on priorities, shared objectives and areas for collaboration including economic developments, trade and investment; human rights, democratisation, rule of law and good governance; development cooperation; humanitarian impact and climate change as well as global and regional matters.
The Zimbabwean side briefed on progress in the Government’s political, economic, electoral and legislative reform agenda and highlighted the financial challenges faced in implementing these reforms.
Further, the Zimbabwean side applauded the efforts by the Zimbabwean Anti-Corruption Commission in fighting corruption.
The EU noted the existing economic and political reform challenges and expressed its wish to support Zimbabwe’s political and economic reform agenda, including the fight against corruption.
The two sides agreed on the importance of reforms and their benefit to the Zimbabwean people.
The two sides acknowledged the commitment to a national dialogue. The Zimbabwean side underlined the call by H.E. the President for all political parties to join the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Political_Actors_Dialogue" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Political Actors Dialogue</a> as a unity of purpose among Zimbabweans and political parties was central to the development of the country.
The EU expressed hope for a profound and inclusive national dialogue to develop a mutual vision for Zimbabwe’s path into the future.
Today’s meeting welcomed the recent developments between the EU and Zimbabwe, such as the additional USD 11 million in humanitarian aid to combat food insecurity announced in August and the additional USD 60 million of development aid to Zimbabwe in close partnership with the UN system and NGOs, to support the health sector and boost resilience in agriculture, announced in October.
The meeting welcomed the agreement by the EU and the five Eastern and Southern African States launch negotiations to deepen the scope of the interim Economic Partnership Agreement beyond trade in goods towards a more comprehensive partnership.
The formal Political Dialogue, which is now an integral part of the relations between the European Union and the Republic of Zimbabwe was conducted in an open, cordial and constructive atmosphere.
The EU-Zimbabwe Political Dialogue was co-chaired by Honourable <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/July_Moyo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">July Moyo</a>, Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade and Minister of Local Government and Public Works, with the support of Honourable <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/David_Musabayana" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">David Musabayana</a>, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Honourable Clemence Chiduwa, Deputy Minister of Finance and Economic Development and Permanent Secretaries and Senior Government Officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and International Trade; Finance and Economic Development; Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs; Local Government and Public Works; Lands, Agriculture, Water and Rural Resettlement; Health and Child Care; Environment, Climate Change, Tourism and Hospitality Industry; Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage and the EU Head of Delegation to Zimbabwe, Ambassador Timo Olkkonen, who was joined by the Heads of Mission of Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, The Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Spain, Sweden and the Czech Republic.
In Harare, on 21 November 2019</blockquote>

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