Brown firm on Zimbabwe sanctions

Harare, 05 March-(ANA)-British Prime Minister Gordon Brown has said sanctions against Zimbabwe should not be lifted until human rights and media censorship concerns are addressed.

After talks with South African President Jacob Zuma, Mr Brown said Zimbabwe must show progress in key areas including democratic reforms.

President Zuma, on a state visit to the UK, has suggested sanctions should be eased to help Zimbabwe "move forward".

Mr Zuma later addressed a special meeting of MPs and peers in Parliament.

After their meeting in Downing Street, President Zuma and Gordon Brown sought to present a united front on Zimbabwe, with the prime minister praising South Africa's role in helping bring "stability and change" to its neighbour.

President Robert Mugabe and Prime Minister Morgan Tsvangirai formed a unity government last year but remain deadlocked over key appointments.

The ongoing trial of a political ally of Mr Tsvangirai's for terrorism and treason has also raised tensions. (ANA)

FA/ANA/05 March 2010-----