Security Council Press Statement on Sudan

The following Security Council press statement was issued today by Council President Li Baodong ( China):

The members of the Security Council were briefed this afternoon by Assistant Secretary General Atul Khare on the security situation in Abyei and in South Sudan.

The members of the Security Council expressed deep concern over the recent fighting in Abyei, and condemned the use of violence.  They urged all parties to work to reduce tensions by implementing the agreements made in Kadugli in January of this year.  They underlined the urgent need for a political agreement on the status of Abyei in the framework of the ongoing discussions between the CPA (Comprehensive Peace Agreement) Parties conducted under the leadership of the African Union High-level Implementation Panel.

The members of the Security Council urged the parties in Abyei to cooperate with the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) as it assists them in resolving their differences.  The Council commended the work of Special Representative of the Secretary-General[Haile] Menkerios and UNMIS in this regard.

The members of the Security Council also condemned the renewed fighting in Jonglei and its impact on civilians, and underlined the need to prevent further clashes.

The members of the Security Council urged UNMIS to monitor the situation on the ground in Abyei and Jonglei, and to provide protection for civilians as called for in its mandate.  The Council called on all parties to provide full and unhindered access for UNMIS.

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For information media • not an official record