President Robert Mugabe is reported to be one of the leaders that will not attend the United States –Africa Summit that will be held in Washington on 5 and 6 August this year because of the poor relations between the two countries.
Reports say 47 leaders have been invited to attend the summit whose main aim is to “further strengthen ties with one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing regions”.
A statement from the White House said “the summit will build on the progress made since the President’s trip to Africa last summer, advance the Administration’s focus on trade and investment in Africa, and highlight America’s commitment to Africa’s security, its democratic development, and its people”.
The United States has refused to recognise Mugabe’s victory in last year’s elections and continues to maintain sanctions against Harare.
The sanctions are usually reviewed in March every year.
Also excluded from the trip are Egypt, Sudan, Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau.
Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta was invited despite the fact that he is facing charges at The Hague.
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