Brussels — "At last, the EU is demonstrating the necessary resolve over Zimbabwe, " said Conservative MEP Geoffrey Van Orden, commenting on the decision of EU Foreign Ministers to introduce 'smart sanctions' against President Mugabe and his close associates, and to withdraw its election observation mission.

"On 28th January the EU set out a list of demands that have not been met. It had no other option today but to impose targeted sanctions. In expelling Pierre Schori, the EU's chief observer, Mugabe once again showed his contempt for the international community."

"It is now vital that the EU measures are closely co-ordinated with the United States and other key actors. Zimbabwe's neighbours, in particular South Africa, must quickly come on side now and take resolute action. This is vital for the stability of the whole southern African region."

"We must be prepared for more grim news from Zimbabwe over the coming 19 days leading up to the election. The international community must hold its nerve. Every opportunity must now be taken to get the message through to the people of Zimbabwe that the international community is acting on their behalf. It has no selfish interests in this matter. Freedom and democracy must be given its chance."

"The EU should also declare that it will not recognise a Zimbabwean dictator kept in power through political violence and a rigged election. It should now give thought to further measures that might it might have to introduce in the event of continuing hostile actions on the part of the Mugabe regime."

Mr Van Orden has led the way in introducing emergency resolutions on Zimbabwe in the European Parliament and bolstering EU political resolve.

His actions have secured cross-party and trans-national support.

Note to Editors: Geoffrey Van Orden MEP is the Vice-Chairman of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the European Parliament. He is Conservative MEP for the East of England and the Conservative Spokesman on Defence and Security Policy and Human Rights.