He said peace and tranquility that Zimbabwe is enjoying since the signing of the Global Political Agreement (GPA) in the year 2008 can only hold if each and every Zimbabwean embraces the spirit of living in harmony and accepts to forgive, the Southern Times reported.

"People are always asking me why peace is holding in Mozambique since the signing of the peace agreement between the Mozambican Government and RENAMO in 1992 and my answer is that it is the Mozambicans that have resolved to live peacefully," he said.

Presenting a paper on 'Conflict Resolution in Southern Africa: The case of Mozambique and Zimbabwe', Chissano said Zimbabweans should complement the organ on National Healing, Integration and Reconciliation.

He also urged Africa to avoid conflicts, which he said were costly.

"Through our past blunders and victories, or what is commonly known as experience, we learn how to live life in the present and how to rise above obstacles and grow in the future.

"Recent political crisis in Southern Africa in general, and Zimbabwe in particular, have clearly demonstrated that conflict situations in one country do not only have a negative impact on the socio-economic development of that country alone but also impact negatively through the contagion effect on regional macro-economic stability and collaboration," he said.

Chissano said conflicts especially those that escalate into violence are the major concern of neighbouring states, civil society and the international community.

He said the prevailing peace in most parts of Southern Africa including Zimbabwe was a milestone achievement for the African continent.

"The historic negotiations phenomenally convinced the major warring parties to set aside their differences, leave the battle field and sit at a round table to map the way forward as team Zimbabwe," he said.

"I am pleased to learn that Zimbabwe has formed an organ on National Healing, Integration and Reconciliation and on this I have loved the word 'healing".

He said the effects of conflict in his country Mozambique had hindered development, a situation which he said also occurred in Zimbabwe.

"Ladies and gentlemen, as African leaders, experience has taught us that peace initiatives and political stability are the requisites in convincing investors that their capital will be secure and it is only when we enjoy peace that we can attract investment that can stimulate sustainable development," said the peace award winning Chissano.