Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu-PF party and both factions of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change have begun talks in South Africa.

This is their first meeting since June's run-off which President Robert Mugabe won unopposed after the MDC pulled out because of violence.

The African Union has urged Zimbabwe to form a government Lufthansa pilots to strike over pay hike demand ...
Zimbabwe opposition leader rejects unity government ...
Japan vows to double Africa aid ...
Zimbabwe police storm MDC office ... of national unity.

South Africa President Thabo Mbeki is leading mediation efforts and is opposed to a push for UN sanctions.

The US and the UK are pushing for a travel ban and assets freeze on President Robert Mugabe and 13 of his allies, and an arms embargo.

Ahead of an expected UN Security Council resolution, the European Parliament has called on European countries to impose more economic sanctions against members of Zimbabwe's government.

The parliament in Strasbourg said the travel restrictions on businessmen who finance Mr Mugabe's government should be part of new measures.

It also said the banks that provide loans or invest in Zimbabwe should be exposed. The vote is non-binding.

(BBC)

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