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<title>STATEMENT BY MINISTER MANLEYAND SECRETARY OF STATE KILGOUR ON SITUATION IN ZIMBABWE</title>
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<p><font size="+1"></font><font size="+1"><strong>March 15, 2001 <em>(2:00 p.m. EST)</em> No. 33</strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font size="+1"><strong>STATEMENT BY MINISTER MANLEY</strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font size="+1"><strong>AND SECRETARY OF STATE KILGOUR </strong></font></p>
<p align="CENTER"><font size="+1"><strong>ON SITUATION IN ZIMBABWE</strong></font></p>
<p>John Manley, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and David Kilgour, Secretary of State (Latin America
and Africa), issued a statement today expressing their serious concern over the deteriorating
political, social and economic situation in Zimbabwe.</p>
<p>"I am struck by the worsening of political and economic conditions, the loss of respect for human
rights and the violation of the rule of law in Zimbabwe," said Minister Manley. "Canada has been
following, with increasing concern, the pressures exerted on the independence and safety of
judges leading to the resignation of the Chief Justice and possible resignation of several other
judges because of intimidation."</p>
<p>Canada notes that the current leaders are the very ones who led the country to majority rule in
1979-80 under a banner of greater democracy for all the people and more equitable economic
conditions, including land reform. Since January 2001, an independent newspaper has been
bombed; the case remains unsolved. In addition, reputable foreign journalists are being denied
work permits and being expelled.</p>
<p>"I believe that the origins of turmoil in Zimbabwe are wider than the land issue. One of the most
far-reaching declarations on the rights of citizens in Commonwealth countries was signed by
Commonwealth leaders in Harare in October 1991," said Secretary of State Kilgour. "Within the
framework of the Harare Declaration, we encourage the government of President Mugabe to
renew its commitment to respect for democratic institutions, including the judiciary, and to
human rights and the rule of law."</p>
<p>The Harare Declaration pledged the Commonwealth and its member countries to work with
renewed vigour for democracy, the rule of law and independence of the judiciary, just and honest
government, and respect for fundamental human rights. </p>
<p>Minister Manley will be in London on March 19 and 20 for the Commonwealth Ministerial
Action Group meeting.</p>
<p align="CENTER">- 30 -</p>
<p>For further information, media representatives may contact:</p>
<p>Sanjeev Chowdhury</p>
<p>Press Secretary</p>
<p>Office of the Minister of Foreign Affairs</p>
<p>(613) 995-1851</p>
<p>Tasha Stefanis</p>
<p>Office of the Secretary of State (Latin America and Africa)</p>
<p>(613) 944-2162</p>
<p>Media Relations Office</p>
<p>Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade</p>
<p>(613) 995-1874</p>
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