The country has more than three million refugees from Zimbabwe...and the minister (Nkoana-Mashabane) and I have talked about ways to create a better outcome for the people of Zimbabwe,' Clinton said.

'We as you know are attempting to target the leadership of Zimbabwe with the sanctions we think that might influence their behaviour,' she said at the conference.

She said President Barack Obama is committed to provide help to the Zimbabweans.

Nkoana-Mashabane said South Africa will continue to work with the people of Zimbabwe to press for the power sharing agreement signed by the political leaders of that country last year.

'We want them to fast-track the implementation of the agreement,' she added.

Clinton said the US will work with South Africa to fight against the scourge of HIV/AIDS in Africa.

She also urged the African leaders to support the transitional federal government in Somalia.