Zimabwe: EU Eases Sanctions Following Referendum
By Staff Writer
HARARE – The European Union on Monday 25 March announced the decision to suspend asset freezes and travel bans on all but a small core of individuals around President Mugabe, in line with a commitment to do so if Zimbabwe held a credible referendum, agreed by EU Member states last year.
Following the announcement, the Foreign Secretary William Hague, said:
“The
He says their aim throughout has been to support the process towards free and fair elections in
It reflects the commitment shown by
European nations suspended most restrictive measures on Zimbabwe in response to referendum.
“The suspension will apply to all but a small core of individuals and entities. That small group includes those who we believe ultimately carry the most responsibility for ensuring elections are free of violence and intimidation,” Hague added.
He said that EU targeted measures should be dynamic, they should recognise and reward progress and they should respond to backsliding. That the EU is able to take this step at this point reflects our confidence in the facilitation process, in President Zuma and in the leaders of SADC. It also places the onus on the Government of Zimbabwe to live up to their commitments. If the situation deteriorates, the EU will of course respond appropriately.