Statement on the Political Agreement reached in Zimbabwe

Pretoria- The South African Government congratulates the people and political leadership of Zimbabwe on the power-sharing agreement reached today and due to be signed under the aegis of SADC on Monday 15 September in Harare.

The agreement has once more underlined our often stated view that only the people of Zimbabwe, acting with the support of the international community, can author their own destiny out of the current political and economic challenges facing their country.

In this regard, we humbly note with appreciation the role played by the SADC Facilitation mission under the leadership of President Thabo Mbeki. Indeed, while this is course for celebration, we are all too aware that this historic milestone constitutes but the end of the beginning.

Accordingly, the sister peoples of Zimbabwe can draw inspiration from the knowledge that the peoples of South Africa, SADC, Africa and indeed the progressive humankind stand ready to partner with them as they embark on the difficult road of reconstruction, reconciliation and nation building.

In this regard, we call on the international community to give its unequivocal support to the people of Zimbabwe as they strike out along this new road.

Issued by Ronnie Mamoepa

Department of Foreign Affairs
P/Bag X152
Pretoria
0001

11 September 2008