Declaration by the Presidency on behalf of the EU

The EU welcomes that under the guidance of SADC an agreement has been reached in Zimbabwe between the parties.

It hopes that the political solution reached will lead to the immediate end to political violence and intimidation and the immediate release of all political prisoners. It further hopes that the new government will demonstrate its commitment to reform, including by repealing repressive legislation, appointing a credible finance team and creating the conditions for economic stabilization.

The overriding priority is to alleviate the suffering of the Zimbabwean people. The EU reiterates its commitment to the people of Zimbabwe through its substantial and long-standing humanitarian aid programme. It also stands ready to support the economic and social recovery of Zimbabwe once the Government shows tangible signs of a return to respect for human rights, the rule of law and macroeconomic stabilisation