Zimbabwe: Visits Abroad

Foreign and Commonwealth Office written question – answered at on 30 November 2017.

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Photo of Lord Boateng Lord Boateng Labour

To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the timing, and the possible impact of, a Ministerial visit to Zimbabwe and its neighbouring states to discuss UK support for political and economic stability in Zimbabwe; and if so, when.

Photo of Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon Minister of State

The Minister for Africa visited Zimbabwe on 23 and 24 November. He met with actors from across the political spectrum, including President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Opposition leaders Morgan Tsvangirai and Joice Mujuru. The UK is clear that the only way for Zimbabwe to achieve a legitimate government is through free and fair elections. We welcome President Mnangagwa's commitment to hold free and fair elections next year and we will do all we can to support a legitimate government rebuild the country, working with international and regional partners. The visit was an early opportunity to deliver these messages. Both the Foreign Secretary and the Minister for Africa are engaging with the region and other international partners on this matter.

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Minister

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opposition

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