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abujagirl
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Robert Mugabe said on Tuesday he was ready to re-establish normal relations with the "arrogant" Western countries that have questioned his re-election in a vote his rivals say was fraudulent.
According to news24, in a speech to parliament that was boycotted by the opposition after disputed elections that his Zanu-PF party would pursue a constructive foreign policy based on cooperation with other countries.
"We indeed stand ready to work even with those who, before, were at odds with us, our detractors," he said, without naming any state, at a pomp-filled opening of parliament.
Mugabe's 40-minute speech was remarkable for its unusual politesse.
He described Western powers as arrogant for keeping sanctions on his Zanu-PF government for the last 13 years over charges of rights abuses and vote rigging, and said his administration would strengthen laws to force foreign-owned firms to surrender majority shares to locals.
However, overall he focused on plans to revive an economy struggling with poverty and unemployment.
Mugabe also vowed to redouble efforts to put foreign firms under national control, saying Zimbabweans must not be "bystanders" in running the country's economy.
"The indigenisation programme is to be pursued with renewed vigor," the veteran leader said, in the first session following the contested 31 July election.
"Indigenisation and empowerment legislation will be reviewed and strengthened during this session," he added.