Foreign ministers from Commonwealth countries saw little chance for Zimbabwe to rejoin decision-making bodies of the alliance soon but left some hope for Pakistan?s re-admission. Both countries have been suspended from key councils for their record on democracy and human rights by the 54-nation Commonwealth, which in the main includes Britain and its former colonies. Eight ministers from the Commonwealth?s action group noted that the Pakistani Parliament remained deadlocked over a legal framework, a key obstacle for a full return to democracy.

But the ministers said that if negotiations between the government and political parties, especially on constitutional issues, were concluded successfully : ?Pakistan?s suspension from the councils of the Commonwealth should be lifted.? The eight Foreign Ministers were from Botswana, Malta, India, Bangladesh, Bahamas, Samoa, Nigeria and Australia. All had been attending the UN General Assembly session.

Pakistan was suspended following a 1999 military coup, led by General Pervez Musharraf, now the country?s president. Zimbabwe was suspended for a year in March 2002 following the re-election of President Robert Mugabe that critics said was rigged. The suspension was extended to December after no progress was reported on alleged human rights abuses.

The action group made no recommendations except to say the Zimbabwe?s controversy would be considered by Commonwealth heads of government at a December summit in Abuja, Nigeria.

The group?s statement also said any decisions on Zimbabwe would be made by the Commonwealth?s ?Troika? composed of Australia, South Africa and Nigeria. Australian Foreign Minister, Alexander Downer, who has taken a tough position on Zimbabwe, prepared a document showing how the government had abused its power and stifled reforms.

?Unless the Mugabe Government embraces reform quickly and enthusiastically, the people of Zimbabwe will continue to suffer economic hardship, political oppression and humanitarian crises,? Downer said.

Evelyn Leopold