Cautious Britain wants to see details of Zimbabwe deal

LONDON (AFP) — Britain reacted cautiously Friday to the agreement to create a unity government in Zimbabwe, saying it was keen to see the details of the deal.

Foreign Secretary David Miliband said in a statement: "The Zimbabwean people deserve a lasting democratic settlement that will bring reform, economic recovery and stability.

"We look forward to seeing the full details of the agreement announced yesterday by President Mbeki."

South African President Thabo Mbeki mediated the talks between Zimbabwe's political rivals.

Miliband added: "Our overriding concern has always been for the people of Zimbabwe. They have suffered too long."

Britain, Zimbabwe's former colonial master, has been highly critical of President Robert Mugabe and his regime.

Mugabe, who has been in power for 28 years, and Morgan Tsvangirai, the leader of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), reached a power-sharing agreement late Thursday after four days of tense talks.

Details of the accord will be unveiled on Monday, but a source close to the negotiations told AFP that Mugabe and Tsvangirai would co-lead the economically depleted nation.

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