Al-Jazeera mulling Harare office

At times, Al Jazeera's coverage has angered western governments

Al-Jazeera television has met Zimbabwe government representatives to discuss the opening of a bureau in the capital.

The Qatar-based broadcaster is preparing to launch a new international channel later this year, and is setting up new bureaux throughout the world.

State media in Zimbabwe reported al-Jazeera officials had met Information Minister Tichaona Jakonya. The outcome of the talks is not known.

Zimbabwe has imprisoned or expelled critical journalists in recent years.

Sources in al-Jazeera confirmed two representatives had been in Harare for talks about possible plans to cover news in Zimbabwe.

Many international media organisations, including the BBC, have had their correspondents expelled from Zimbabwe.

Most independent local media have been shut down by the government.