China considering aid to Zimbabwe: FM

CHINA: China yesterday said it was considering providing emergency aid to Zimbabwe, which is currently struggling against a cholera epidemic that has already claimed nearly 600 lives.

“To help the people in Zimbabwe overcome the current difficulties, China is actively considering providing emergency humanitarian assistance, including food assistance to Zimbabwe,” foreign ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao told reporters.

This could increase the death toll nearly five-fold. Zimbabwe has declared a national emergency over the outbreak, appealing for international aid to fight the waterborne disease.

Liu said China was concerned over the deterioration of the situation in Zimbabwe, which also faces crippling shortages of food.

But he did not join growing international calls for President Robert Mugabe to step down after a 28-year-rule that has left Zimbabwe’s economy in a shambles amid a political deadlock after disputed elections this year. Hopes had soared for an end to the crisis when Mugabe, a Beijing ally, and opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai signed a power-sharing deal on September 15, but the agreement is now floundering.

Liu said that China was supportive of efforts to mediate the crisis.

“China stands ready to work with the international community to provide support and assistance for Zimbabwe in maintaining stability, national solidarity and economic development.”

BEIJING, Tuesday, AFP

Zimbabwe cholera death toll near 600- UN

ZIMBABWE: The death toll from Zimbabwe’s cholera epidemic neared 600 on Tuesday and President Robert Mugabe’s government accused Western powers of exploiting the outbreak to force the veteran leader’s departure.