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EU claims it supports Zimbabwe debt clearance
30 May 2024 at 03:46hrs | Views
European Union ambassador to Zimbabwe, Jobst von Kirchmann, expressed the bloc's interest in Zimbabwe's success in debt resolution talks with creditors. However, he emphasized that debt clearance requires reforms in economic governance, governance, and addressing debt issues.
Kirchmann highlighted the need for Zimbabwe to engage with the international community on challenging topics such as good governance and economic reforms.
Zimbabwe has been actively working to resolve its official debt and clear arrears with international creditors, including the African Development Bank. President Emmerson Mnangagwa reiterated the government's commitment to debt clearance during his current visit to Kenya for the African Development Bank annual meetings.
Regarding funding for the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Kirchmann explained that the EU suspended financial aid due to concerns about credibility, particularly in the aftermath of the August 2023 elections. Observers, including those from Sadc, the Carter Center, and the EU, noted irregularities in the elections, which fell short of regional and international standards. Kirchmann highlighted that the disputed elections hampered trust-building efforts.
Kirchmann highlighted the need for Zimbabwe to engage with the international community on challenging topics such as good governance and economic reforms.
Regarding funding for the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), Kirchmann explained that the EU suspended financial aid due to concerns about credibility, particularly in the aftermath of the August 2023 elections. Observers, including those from Sadc, the Carter Center, and the EU, noted irregularities in the elections, which fell short of regional and international standards. Kirchmann highlighted that the disputed elections hampered trust-building efforts.
Source - newsday
