Secretary-General Deeply Concerned about Deteriorating Security in Sudanese States

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

The Secretary-General is deeply concerned about the deterioration of the security situation in Southern Kordofan and the eruption of fighting in Blue Nile State.  The Secretary-General urges the parties to immediately cease all hostilities and allow access to the humanitarian agencies to all affected areas to provide vital assistance to the civilian population.

The Secretary-General welcomes the recent efforts led by the Prime Minister of Ethiopia, Meles Zenawi, to help the parties resolve their differences through peaceful political means.

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For information media • not an official record