23 April 2008
As leaders of the Labour Party and the African National Congress (ANC) we reaffirmed our strong historical relationship. We explored the ties between the two parties, particularly further developing links between young people in the progressive movement globally. We discussed major challenges facing the world and agreed progressive parties should work together to overcome them. In particular we agreed on the importance of education and the Millennium Development Goals and the need to work together to build a global effort to get the world back on track.
We recognised the challenges posed by the food crisis for millions of poor people and agreed on the need for coordinated global action.
We resolved on the crisis in Zimbabwe to redouble our efforts to secure early publication of election results. We call for an end to any violence and intimidation and stressed the importance of respect for the sovereign people of Zimbabwe and the choice they have made at the ballot box. We agreed on the importance of humanitarian aid and the need for international cooperation to support the recovery of the economy of Zimbabwe once all election processes have been fulfilled.
Issued by:
Jacob Zuma, President of the African National Congress
The Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP, Leader of the Labour Party
London
23 April 2008