Zimbabwe's ruling Zanu-PF party and the opposition Movement for Democratic Charge (MDC) began talks today aimed at breaking an impasse sparked by last month's disputed presidential elections.
But prospects of a successful dialogue were dim as ZANU-PF and the MDC have both dug in their heels on the issue of whether fresh elections are needed.
The MDC insists that the March poll was rigged and has called for a rerun - an idea categorically rejected by Zanu-PF.
The talks, mediated by two facilitators appointed by presidents Mr Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria and Mr Thabo Mbeki of South Africa, come at a time when the country faces severe political and economic crises.
The press was asked to leave the venue for the talks almost immediately, after initially being authorised to attend the debate.
AFP