SECRETARY-GENERAL GRAVELY CONCERNED AT ATTACKS ON OUTSKIRTS OF KHARTOUM,

CONDEMNS USE OF FORCE TO ACHIEVE POLITICAL ENDS

 

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesperson for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General expresses his grave concern at the outbreak of fighting on the outskirts of Khartoum as a result of the reported attacks by Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) forces against the capital.

He strongly condemns the use of armed force and military means by JEM for the achievement of political ends, and calls for an immediate cessation of fighting and a renewed commitment to a peaceful resolution of outstanding issues.

The Secretary-General expresses his anxiety at the effect they would have on the overall situation in Sudan, as well as on the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and Darfur Agreement, and at the possible effect on civilian lives and property of any escalation of these attacks.

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