The Canadian Prime Minister has said the Commonwealth is unlikely to take punitive action against Zimbabwe until after next weekend's presidential election.
Jean Chretien was speaking after consultations at the heads of Government summit in Australia. Leaders are divided on the issue of Zimbabwe and President Robert Mugabe's human rights record.
African leaders have rallied to the support of President Mugabe. Britain and Australia had been seeking Zimbabwe's suspension from the Commonwealth, accusing President Mugabe of a campaign of violence and intimidation ahead of next weekend's elections.
Tanzania's president said that it would be premature to impose any sanctions before the outcome of the elections was known.
