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EU Diplomats Say No Immediate Sanctions on Zimbabwe VOA News 25 Jan 2002 22:29 UTC 
European Union diplomats say EU foreign ministers are not likely to impose sanctions on Zimbabwe at an upcoming meeting in Brussels.
Such a measure would play into the hands of Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, officials at EU headquarters in Belgium say, and would serve as a pretext to further intimidate the opposition. EU foreign ministers are expected to meet on Monday.
Diplomats say the ministers want to see how the situation develops ahead of March presidential elections, in which Mr. Mugabe is facing a stiff challenge from opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai. President Mugabe is also facing increasing international criticism of his government's crackdown on the media and opposition.
Britain has been the most outspoken opponent within the EU of Mr. Mugabe's rule. This week, British prime minister called Mr. Mugabe a disgrace to his country and said Britain would seek Zimbabwe's expulsion from the Commonwealth.
Next week a Commonwealth ministerial group is set to discuss a proposal for Zimbabwe's suspension from the 54-member organization.
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