Zim set to host High-Level Debt Resolution Forum

Zim Now Writer

As part of efforts to facilitate the process of external debt resolution and arrears clearance, Zimbabwe is set to host a high-level debt resolution forum.

Finance and Economic Development Professor Minister Mthuli Ncube made the announcement, saying the forum will be held on May 15 with the objectives of giving an update on progress with the draft of three Policy Matrices, the presentation of the way forward with the Structured Dialogue Platform meetings, as well as presenting a tentative roadmap.

“The Government of Zimbabwe, in December 2022, established a Structured Dialogue Platform with all creditors and Development Partners, in order to institutionalise structured dialogue on economic and governance reforms to underpin the Arrears Clearance and Debt Resolution process.

“The process is being championed by the President of the African Development Bank Dr Akinumwi Adesina and H.E Joaquim Alberto Chissano, former President of the Republic of Mozambique, who is the High-Level facilitator,” Prof Ncube said.

He added: “Following the Structured Dialogue Platform meetings held on 1 December 2022, 23 February 2023, and 30 March 2023, three Sector Working Groups were established on Economic Reforms, Governance Reforms, Land Tenure Reforms, Compensation of Former Farm Owners and the resolution of Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements.

“The three SWGs are finalising on the Reform Matrices.”

The treasury chief on Thursday hosted the Fourth Structured Dialogue platform meeting aimed at presenting the draft three matrices.

The country has over US$14 billion in external debt, a development that led to organisations like the International Monetary Fund and World Bank halting their lending facilities to the country.