SECURITY COUNCIL PRESS STATEMENT ON SUDAN

 

Following is the Security Council press statement on the Sudan, delivered today by Council President Adamantios Th. Vassilakis (Greece):

The members of the Security Council welcome the inauguration of the Presidency of the new Government of National Unity in Sudan on 9 July.  The members of the Council congratulate the people of Sudan on this historic event which is the result of the hard work and determination of the parties.

The members of the Council look forward to the speedy establishment of the complete interim Government of National Unity and to the full and inclusive implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, which will include, inter alia, agreement on the Constitution of Southern Sudan, appointment of a Government of Southern Sudan, and setting up the Assessment and Evaluation Commission to oversee implementation of the Comprehensive Peace Agreement.

For lasting peace in Sudan, there must be an end to the conflict in Darfur.  The members of the Security Council reiterate their support for the ongoing efforts of the African Union Mission in Darfur and welcome increased international assistance in building up the presence on the ground.

The members of the Security Council welcome the signature of a Declaration of Principles on 5 July.  They encourage the new Presidency and other parties to take urgent steps to resolve the crisis in Darfur through peaceful means, and to be prepared to make decisive progress when the talks resume in August.

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