Federal Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier met Zimbabwe's Prime Minister, Morgan Tsvangirai, and several Zimbabwean ministers this morning (15 June). Their talks focused on the political and economic situation in the southern African country.

After his conversation, Federal Minister Steinmeier issued the following statement:

“Zimbabwe has lost many years – the transitional government's top priority must be to return to democracy and the rule of law, as well as ensuring the country's economic recovery. I welcome the fact that since the transitional government under Morgan Tsvangirai entered office initial major steps have been taken to combat, among other things, the cholera epidemic and hyperinflation. However, further steps must follow, particularly a comprehensive reform of the security sector. Germany stands ready to assist a democratic Zimbabwe as a partner on its difficult road back into the international community.”