G8 leaders' statement on Zimbabwe

G8 leaders' statement on Zimbabwe

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The following is the text of a statement released at the end of the Group of 8 (G8) summit on Tuesday, July 8, over the situation in Zimbabwe. The text avoids the use of the word "sanctions" but refers to "further steps" and "measures" -- an apparent concession to Russia which is opposed to sanctions:

Toyako, Japan

1.We expressed our grave concern about the situation in Zimbabwe. We deplore the fact that the Zimbabwean authorities pressed ahead with the presidential election despite the absence of appropriate conditions for free and fair voting as a result of their systematic violence, obstruction and intimidation.

2. We do not accept the legitimacy of any government that does not reflect the will of the Zimbabwean people.

3. We strongly urge the Zimbabwean authorities to work with the opposition to achieve a prompt, peaceful resolution of the crisis. It is important that any mediation process respect the results of the March 29 2008 election.

4.We support the Africa Union (AU) as it expresses deep concern with the negative reports from the Southern African Development Community (SADC), the AU and the Pan-African Parliament observers on the elections and the loss of life that has occurred in Zimbabwe. We also support the AU’s call to encourage Zimbabwean leaders to initiate dialogue with a view to promoting peace and stability. We encourage regional bodies, including SADC and the AU, to provide strong leadership towards a quick and democratic resolution of this crisis, including by further strengthening the regional mediation process.

5.We are deeply concerned by the humanitarian dimension of the situation in Zimbabwe. The Zimbabwean authorities must allow the immediate resumption of humanitarian operations and full and non-discriminatory access to humanitarian assistance to prevent the suffering of the most vulnerable people in Zimbabwe.

6. We will continue to monitor the situation and work together with SADC, the AU, the UN and other relevant organisations for a prompt resolution of the crisis. We recommend the appointment of a Special Envoy of the UN Secretary-General to report on the political, humanitarian, human rights and security situation and to support regional efforts to take forward mediation between political parties. We will take further steps, inter alia introducing financial and other measures against those individuals responsible for violence.
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