The meeting agreed, in the overall context of the statement, that the way forward is for Zimbabwe's international partners: to engage constructively with the UNDP and the government of Zimbabwe in pursuing an effective and sustainable land reform programme, on the basis of the UNDP proposals of December 2000; to respond positively to any request from the government of Zimbabwe in support of the electoral process; and to continue to contribute to poverty reduction programmes for the benefit of the people of Zimbabwe; and that those partners present (Australia, Canada and United Kingdom), would actively pursue these objectives. The meeting also welcomed the re-affirmation of the United Kingdom's commitment to a significant financial contribution to such a land reform programme and its undertaking to encourage other international donors to do the same. Appreciation The meeting expressed its profound gratitude and appreciation to President Olusegun Obasanjo for his continuing efforts at finding a durable solution to this problem. It also expressed gratitude to the Chairman, Foreign Minister Sule Lamido, for the excellent manner in which he conducted the proceedings. Lastly it expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Nigeria for the hospitality and the conducive atmosphere provided for the meeting. The spirit of camaraderie, informality, honesty and forthrightness that was brought to bear on the proceedings of the meeting, was also recognised as being consistent with the best Commonwealth tradition. Finally, the Committee agreed to convey to President Obasanjo its willingness to hold further consultations, if he so desires. Abuja, 6 September 2001 38

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