‘Sanctions removal reflects EU commitment to dialogue’

Wallace Ruzvidzo-Herald Reporter

THE removal of sanctions on Zimbabwean individuals and entities this week by the European Union reflects the bloc’s commitment to engagement and dialogue with Harare, EU Ambassador to Zimbabwe Ms Katrin Hagemann has said.

The removal of the embargo followed an annual review by the Council of the EU, the bloc’s key decision-making body representing the 27 Member States, which resolved to lift all remaining restrictive measures targeting Zimbabwean individuals and entities.

Only the EU arms embargo remains in place.

Speaking during her first meet the press engagement at her residence in Harare yesterday, Ambassador Katrin Hagemann said the move underscores Brussels’ intention to strengthen a partnership built on trust, mutual respect and shared interests.

“The European Union reiterates its commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Zimbabwe and to strengthening a partnership built on trust, mutual respect and shared interests,” she said.

Ambassador Hagemann expressed hope that the latest development would further consolidate constructive engagement under the Zimbabwe–EU partnership dialogue framework.

“We look forward to the next formal Zimbabwe–EU partnership dialogue and to continued engagement that delivers tangible benefits for both Zimbabwe and the EU,” she said.

Ambassador Hagemann said trade and investment remain central to the evolving partnership.

The EU is one of Zimbabwe’s top trading partners, with trade between the two sides continuing to grow.

Zimbabwe enjoys duty-free and quota-free access to all 27 EU Member State markets.

However, only around 200 Zimbabwean companies are currently exporting to Europe, highlighting significant room for expansion.

“Increasing trade volumes — with the immediate symbolic goal of reaching US$1 billion — represents an important milestone.

“Promoting sustainable and inclusive private sector development is therefore a priority, underpinned by stability, predictability and strong governance to foster investor confidence,” said the EU in a press release.

Looking ahead, Ambassador Hagemann said she was excited about engaging closely with Zimbabweans from all walks of life.

“I very much look forward to travelling across Zimbabwe — to see first-hand the impact of our joint programmes, to meet our partners and most importantly, to connect with the people of this beautiful country.

“I hope to listen, to learn and to better understand the hopes and aspirations that drive Zimbabweans forward,” she said.

Beyond broader regional and global initiatives in Zimbabwe, such as the EU’s Global Gateway strategy and support for the rehabilitation of the Kariba Dam — a critical source of hydroelectric power for the country — the EU continues to partner with Zimbabwe across multiple sectors.

Further collaboration in health, culture and humanitarian assistance complements the EU’s overall engagement in Zimbabwe.