SECRETARY-GENERAL CONCERNED AT SUSPENSION OF SUDAN PEACE TALKS

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is concerned at the suspension of the second round of peace talks between the Government of the Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (SPLM) which had opened on 12 August in Machakos, Kenya, under the auspices of the Sudan Peace Committee of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD).

The Secretary-General urges both sides to resume negotiations at the earliest opportunity and to build upon the progress made towards bringing an end to the devastating conflict in the Sudan which has caused untold suffering to their people.

He reiterates his appreciation for the efforts of the Government of Kenya in leading the IGAD peace initiative as well as to the IGAD and other countries for their contribution to the peace process.  He encourages them to continue their efforts to help the parties reach a comprehensive agreement that will usher in a new and promising era for all the people of the Sudan.

The United Nations continues to support the IGAD peace process for the Sudan and stands ready to contribute to the efforts of the international community to help implement a peace agreement concluded by the Sudanese parties.

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