Zim minister calls for lifting of economic sanctions

Zim minister calls for lifting of economic sanctions
By Sututu Katundu
Sun 22 Nov. 2009, 04:00 CAT

ZIMBABWE’S Minister of State for National Security Dr Sidney Sekeramayi has called for the lifting of economic sanctions against his country.

During the official opening of the 25th session of the Zambia/Zimbabwe joint permanent commission on Defence and Security in Lusaka, Dr Sekeramayi said despite the demonstration by Zimbabwe of its sincerity and commitment to the letter and spirit of the Global Political Agreement (GPA), the country still found itself reeling under the illegal sanctions imposed on the country and part of the leadership.

“During the ten months of its existence, the inclusive government has promoted peace and security, economic revival and growth and in the process, enhanced the respect for human rights and democracy,” he said.

Dr Sekeramayi thanked President Rupiah Banda and other Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) leaders for their repeated calls for the removal of sanctions against Zimbabwe.

And defence minister Dr Kalombo Mwansa called for the strengthening of joint efforts in dealing with cross-border crimes.

“The importance of increased co-operation between our defence and security services need not be over emphasised. Nonetheless, I wish to state that this commission is an invaluable mechanism for addressing issues of mutual concern. In this regard I wish to reaffirm Zambia’s commitment to this commission,” Dr Mwansa said.

He reassured the people of Zimbabwe of Zambia’s continued support during this period when the country is facing some challenges.

“We therefore feel honoured that Zambia, as a vice chairman of the Southern African Development Community organ on politics, defence and security co-operation, was privileged to participate in the recent meeting at which the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) accepted to rejoin the inclusive government,” he said.

Dr Mwansa expressed confidence that the situation in Zimbabwe would continue to improve not only for the benefit of citizens in Zimbabwe but the entire region as a whole.

“You will agree with me that our two countries can only be guaranteed if our defence and security services continue to closely work together in finding lasting solutions to challenges of mutual interest,” he said.

He cited, among other things, the increased tendency by illegal migrants from Africa and other regions to use the two countries’ common border as a transit route.

“Furthermore, incidents of cross-border crime such as smuggling, poaching, cattle-rustling and illicit drug trafficking have continued to be a source of concern. There is therefore need for strengthening joint efforts in dealing with these vices,” said Dr Mwansa.