HARARE, July 16 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe on Wednesday met a special envoy from Mozambican President Armando Guebuza, the state-run New Ziana reported.

    The envoy, Dr Oldemiro Baloi, was quoted as saying he had discussed a number of issues with Mugabe including exchanging notes on improving the cordial relations that exist between the two countries.

    Baloi, who is also Mozambican foreign minister, said Mozambique would always stand by Zimbabwe in times of need, particularly now that the country was going through socioeconomic hardships, according to the report.

    "Problems in Zimbabwe are problems for Mozambique and the whole region," he said, adding that challenges, which the country was facing, should be addressed soon.

    "We are encouraged by the talks (between Zimbabwe's rival parties). They should proceed as rapidly as possible so that Zimbabwe can continue to play its role in regional development," he added.