Zimbabwe - Britain relations thaw

Zimbabwe and Britain's bilateral relations appear to be on the mend, but Harare maintains the onus is on London to ensure relations are normalised.

British ambassador to Zimbabwe Catriona Laing today paid a courtesy call on Vice President Phelekezela Mphoko and confirmed progress is being made in normalising cooperation.

Relations between Harare and London soured when the former British colony embarked on the land reform programme, repossessing vast tracks of land from the white farmers and redistributing it to the former marginalised indigenous blacks.

Ambassador Laing told the ZBC News after meeting Vice President Mphoko that her country and Zimbabwe share common cultural ties and are making good progress in normalising relations.

She said it is in the interest of both countries to normalise the relationship.

The number of Chevening scholarships awarded to Zimbabweans this academic year has trebled, says Ambassador Laing, who was seconded to Zimbabwe last year.

She added the United Kingdom will continue with its developmental support to Zimbabwe.

The onus is entirely on the United Kingdom to take the initiative to build bridges, says Vice President Mphoko.

Meanwhile, Cde Mphoko who is on a countrywide tour of national projects has expressed optimism that from what he has seen, there is great potential for the country.