The Australian Ambassador to Zimbabwe Suzanne McCourt says Zimbabwe is not yet fit to be re-integrated into the Global world.
The disqualification of Zimbabwe to fit into the international community has been further caused by its reluctance to investigate the disappearance of rights activist Itai Dzamara who was abducted by suspected state security agents four months ago.
Dzamara prior to his disappearance, he was staging peaceful protests against President Robert Mugabe who he demanded to fulfill his 2013 election campaign promises of creating jobs.
Since his abduction government has not given an update on Dzamara’s investigations despite the existence of a court order directing them to do so.
In an exclusive interview with ZimEye.com Ambassador McCourt said although there has been progress in the Zimbabwe-Australia bridge building process, like other western countries, they are worried by the lack of democratic principles observation by Harare.
“There is certainly some improvement that could happen in the bilateral relationship and I think both governments are aware of that but there are some few issues that need to be resolved and I am looking forward to working on those issues during my time here,” she said.
“Australia has along with other governments been keen to encourage democratic values in all where we work; Australia has a very strong democratic tradition”.
Ambassador McCourt said during her term of offices she will intensify dialogue with everyone so that Zimbabwe once rejoins the international community.
“I have come with mandate to engage as broadly as I can, to speak with members of government, members o f the opposition, and other political parties, to speak with community members and whoever I can reach out to,” she said.