26/05/2013 00:00:00
by Agencies
AUSTRALIA is further easing sanctions against Zimbabwe after the conclusion of constitutional reforms but warned the measures would be re-imposed if the reform process derails.
Foreign Minister Bob Carr said sanctions against 65 individuals - including politicians, government officials and military personnel - and three entities will be lifted.
The move comes after more than 90 per cent of Zimbabweans voted in favour of a new constitution on March 16 this year, with constitutional legislation being formally adopted last week.
Carr said Australia's decision was aimed at encouraging further democratic reforms.
"Zimbabwe's next step must be the holding of free, fair and credible elections by the end of 2013," he said.
He however, said Canberra remained concerned about the fragile political situation in the country.
"It has been made clear that Australian sanctions will be re-imposed should political reforms be derailed," he said.
Canberra lifted sanctions against 55 people in March.
Australia still has travel and financial restrictions against 33 people - including President Robert Mugabe - and one entity, as well as an arms embargo and a ban on defence links.
The country first adopted sanctions against Zimbabwe in 2002 accusing Mugabe of trampling human rights and suppressing the country's political opposition, led by Morgan Tsvangirai.
Tsvangirai formed a power-sharing government with Mugabe in 2009. He called on Australia to suspend sanctions when he visited Canberra in July last year.
posted by MrK @ 5:51 PM
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