Mnangagwa, Ramaphosa hold talks

President Emmerson Mnangagwa yesterday met visiting South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Harare to discuss trade and the political situation in both countries.

Ramaphosa, who was accompanied by his International Relations and Co-operation minister Lindiwe Sisulu and State Security Dipuo minister Letsatsi-Duba, arrived in the capital late in the afternoon.

He held an hour's discussion with Mnangagwa, which centred on trade, infrastructure development and the state of the economy in their respective countries.

Briefing journalists at his Munhumutapa offices, Mnangagwa said the two discussed challenges facing their new administrations.

"We exchanged notes on a number of issues on infrastructure, trade and the economy," he said.

"We shared challenges that our respective countries are faced with and how could solve them.

"In Zimbabwe, we have poor infrastructure, poor road network and an economy that is down."

Ramaphosa said they also discussed the political transitions, which occurred in the two neighbouring states.

South Africa is Zimbabwe's biggest trading partner and it is also embarking on the emotive land reform programme — an initiative that has rattled many investors.

Ramaphosa said his country, unlike Zimbabwe whose land reform programme was chaotic, would consult widely with all stakeholders before redistributing.