Statement by Mr. Masahiko Koumura, Minister for Foreign Affairs, on the current Situation in Zimbabwe

June 24, 2008

I think it really deplorable that in Zimbabwe, because of systematic acts of violence, obstruction and intimidation, a situation in which appropriate conditions for carrying out free and fair Presidential runoff voting were not met, has continued and that the opposition party candidate has withdrawn from the election.
Japan urges the Government of Zimbabwe to halt politics violence immediately and make efforts to carry out a meaningful and fair election.
Japan calls on the Government of Zimbabwe to cooperate with the diplomatic efforts of the international community, including the South African Development Community, for stability in Zimbabwe.

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