United Nations Radio

Zimbabwe's President Robert Mugabe, addressing world leaders gathered at the UN, blamed climate change and Western sanctions for the lack of sufficient food in his country.

"Once again, I appeal to the world's collective conscience to apply pressure for the immediate removal of these sanctions by Britain, the United States and their allies, which have brought untold suffering to our people."

President Mugabe noted the failed attempt to get UN approval for the sanctions, which were opposed by Russia and China. He said those who falsely accuse him of human rights violations are themselves perpetrators of "genocide and mass destruction" in the invasion of Iraq.

Reporting for UN Radio, I'm Bissera Kostova.

(duration: 53")