By Diplomatic Correspondent
The Germany embassy to Zimbabwe has refuted claims that it supported the civil unrest that took place in Zimbabwe last week.
In a statement, the Germany mission said allegations spread by some government officials and media were false.
“The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany has noted with concern repeated allegations by representatives of Government and State Media that NGOs, Germans or even “regime change organizations” from Germany have had some involvement in the recent stay away or might even be behind efforts to overthrow the Government. The Embassy, on its behalf and on behalf of German NGOs, states categorically that these allegations are untrue.”
“The German Ambassador raised his concerns with representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade. He underlined that efforts to undermine the positive contributions of NGOs to the development of a democratic and prosperous Zimbabwe will be seen as a setback not only for democracy, but also for the efforts of the Government of Zimbabwe to reengage with countries like Germany. The Ambassador was assured that the Government of Zimbabwe sees Germany as a friend and partner in its quest to reengage,” reads the statement.
The Germany embassy underlined its commitment to work with the Government of Zimbabwe and all peace-loving Zimbabweans to build a democratic and prosperous Zimbabwe.
“This, however, will only be successful, if the root causes of the present crisis are addressed. This includes among others, as HE the President has on many occasions declared, making Government more responsive to the aspirations of the people of Zimbabwe and more business-friendly.”
“The Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany wants to add its voice of concern regarding the violence that erupted last week. While demonstrating is a constitutional right in Germany like in Zimbabwe, this right must be exercised peacefully. And while Governments have a responsibility to stop violence, they must do so with utmost circumspection, and must not become a source of violence themselves,” read the statement.
