EU declares relations with Zimbabwe "entering a new phase"

The European Union has declared relations with Zimbabwe are 'entering a new phase' following a two-day visit to the country by EU officials.

The delegation's trip to the African nation was the first in seven years, with Zimbabwe's president Robert Mugabe previously announcing the group were welcomed with 'open arms'.

Speaking on Sunday, Sweden's international development minister, Gunilla Carlsson, said: 'Now we're entering a new phase.

'The political agreement was an important step forward, but much needs to be done. The key to re-engagement is the full implementation of the political agreement.'

The EU has imposed sanctions on Zimbabwe since 2002 following a disputed presidential poll and allegations of human rights violations.

Western nations have refused to lift the sanctions until there is evidence of severe political and economic reform, despite the Zimbabwean government claiming it needs another $10 million in aid.

During the weekend Ms Carlsson said the sanctions would not be lifted until the alleged human rights abuses were ended.

The EU delegation reportedly did not discuss the sanctions during meetings with Mr Mugabe this weekend but they were instead mentioned during negotiations with the country's prime minister Morgan Tsvangirai.

Mr Mugabe has continued to blame the sanctions for his country's dire economic situation and courted even greater controversy just days before the delegation arrived, lambasting 'bloody whites' for meddling in Zimbabwe's affairs.

The president, however, said his meeting with the EU officials had been a good one, describing it as 'quite a friendly meeting'.