SECRETARY-GENERAL DEEPLY CONCERNED BY VIOLENCE IN WEST DARFUR, CHAD-SUDAN BORDER

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

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned by the increasing violence in West Darfur and along the Chad-Sudan border. 

The Secretary-General is disturbed by reports that bombs dropped by Chadian aircraft have struck locations in the vicinity of Umm Dukhum in West Darfur on 16 July.  These events put the lives of Sudanese civilians at risk and could increase the tensions between the two countries.  The Secretary-General condemns the incident and takes note that the Government of Sudan has rightly responded through diplomatic means.  He urges both Governments to show restraint and make greater efforts to improve their relations.

The Secretary-General is also gravely concerned by the reports of bombings by the Government of Sudan on rebel positions in the Jebel Moon area of West Darfur, which took place on 18 July.  He calls on the Sudanese Government and all parties to the conflict to cease military actions, comply with Security Council resolutions in this regard and to commit to a cessation of hostilities.

The Secretary-General reiterates that the only solution to the conflict in Darfur is through an inclusive, political settlement.

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For information media • not an official record