Hon Meshoe, SADC has taken a very responsible approach to the difficulties in Zimbabwe. We do know that some in the past called for more force to be used against Zimbabwe. The truth is that problems are never solved by waging wars. That is an illusion.
We know that those who are militarily superior always delude themselves into believing that it is possible, through military invasions, to solve problems. But the SADC view is that only dialogue solves problems.
This call for the lifting of sanctions is not aimed at protecting and defending President Mugabe as an individual. It is meant to attract the necessary investments into Zimbabwe so that their economic recovery plan can take effect. We know that once the economy recovers and political stability is consolidated, the SADC region as a whole can only benefit from such developments. That is really the rationale behind SADC's stance.
You know, President Mugabe is an individual. He's now at an advanced age ... [Interjections.] It's not helpful to devote all of our efforts to dealing with him as an individual. Thank you. [Time expired.] [Applause.]