DEMARCHE ON ZIMBABWE DELIVERED

UNCLAS MASERU 000236 SIPDIS DEPT FOR AF/S E.O. 12958: N/A TAGS: PGOV LT SUBJECT: DEMARCHE ON ZIMBABWE DELIVERED ¶1. Chargi d' Affaires a.i. met with the Director for Europe and Americas, Itumeleng Rafutho-Labuschagne and the Counselor in the Directorate of Political Affairs, Mr. Matete `Nena on Tuesday, July 14, 2009, to discuss the progress made by government of national unity in Zimbabwe. ¶2. CDA indicated the USG has been following developments in Zimbabwe following the Global Peace Agreement (GPA) in Zimbabwe and delivered reftel's talking points. She stated that the US is pleased with SADC efforts in fostering cooperation in the government of national unity in Zimbabwe, however, there are concerns that the GPA is not being fully implemented as a result of the actions of President Mugabe. Chargi d' Affaires cited the continued arrests and land seizures as unfortunate. She pointed out that back in May 2009, Prime Minister Tsvangirai requested that the Southern African Development Community (SADC) assist the GOZ in the full implementation of the agreement. She stressed that it is the wish of the USG to see Lesotho and other SADC member states engaged in the consolidation of the democratic process in Zimbabwe. ¶3. `Nena did not offer any substantive response but he indicated that they will consult their superiors and advise post if there are any developments to this issue prior to the Ordinary SADC Summit scheduled to take place in the DRC in September. Note: The summit normally takes place annually in August and rotates amongst the member states, however, this year it has been postponed to September at the request of the DRC government. End Note. Post will advise of any developments on this issue. POWER