South African Government congratulates Zimbabwean Parties for the Signing of the Memorandum of Understanding

Pretoria- The signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Zimbabwean political parties today, 21 July in Harare heralds the dawn of a new beginning in the quest for a lasting solution to the country’s political and economic challenges.

In this regard, we extend our congratulations to the leadership of ZANU-PF and the two MDC parties for their commitment shown thus far to help extricate Zimbabwe from its current political and economic challenges.

We are convinced that the Memorandum of Understanding has laid a firm foundation for the Zimbabwean people to start on a new road towards political stability and economic recovery.

We reiterate our view that the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is a significant and major step forward in the process of dialogue among the Zimbabwean political parties as facilitated by President Thabo Mbeki in his capacity as SADC Facilitator.

Accordingly, we express our gratitude to President Mbeki, for working tirelessly behind the scenes to assist the people of Zimbabwe in their quest for a lasting political and economic solution.

We commit ourselves to continue implementing the mandate accorded us by SADC and the African Union in order to ensure that the objectives of peace, stability and economic prosperity which are shared by the Zimbabwean people and the international community are realised.

In this regard, we edge all those in the international community who are genuinely committed to the resolution of challenges facing Zimbabwe to support the process towards the speedy and successful conclusion of the dialogue now underway.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa at 0829904853

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

21 July 2008