Zimbabwe urges EU to lift remaining sanctions

Zimbabwe has renewed calls for the unconditional removal of the European Union's remaining arms embargo, saying the measure continues to limit the country's full participation in global peace and security efforts.

Acting Foreign Affairs and International Trade Minister Frederick Shava made the remarks during Europe Day celebrations hosted by the European Union delegation in Harare on Friday.

The comments come as Zimbabwe and the EU continue efforts to normalise relations following years of strained ties linked to sanctions imposed in the early 2000s.

"While we acknowledge the removal of all remaining EU sanctions on Zimbabwe, the arms embargo continues to be the elephant in the room," Shava said.

"We therefore call for the unconditional removal of the embargo to facilitate and enable Zimbabwe to participate fully in the maintenance of global peace and security."

Zimbabwe has repeatedly argued that the embargo undermines its international standing and security cooperation efforts, despite the EU having lifted most targeted sanctions over recent years.

Shava said Zimbabwe remained committed to strengthening cooperation with the EU, including under the Economic Partnership Agreement framework, and was ready to collaborate on areas of mutual interest.

He also appealed for European support ahead of next month's elections for non-permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council, where Zimbabwe is seeking a seat with backing from the African Union and the Southern African Development Community.

Zimbabwe previously served on the Security Council during the 1983–1984 and 1991–1992 terms.

EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe Katrin Hagemann said relations between the two sides continued to evolve on the basis of mutual respect and cooperation.

"In today's interconnected world, the challenges we face, such as climate change, economic uncertainty, food security, or technological transformation, do not stop at borders. Cooperation is therefore not a choice, but a necessity," Hagemann said.

Europe Day commemorates the 1950 Schuman Declaration, regarded as the foundation of the modern European Union. The Harare event was attended by government officials, diplomats, civil society representatives and business leaders.