Sudanese president hopes next round of Darfur peace talks be final

KHARTOUM, June 4, 2005 (Xinhua) — Sudanese President Omar el-Bashir expressed hope Saturday that the next round of peace talks between his government and the Darfur rebel groups scheduled for June 10 in the Nigerian capital Abuja will be final and successful.

Sudanese President Omar Al-Bashir addresses a crowd in Juba, Sudan Monday Jan. 10, 2005. (AP).

In a press statement following his meeting with the Arab League Secretary General Amr Moussa, who is on a visit to Sudan, Bashir said that the success of the peace talks would pave the way for an inclusive conference in Darfur to enhance peace, stability, development and social services there.

He pointed out that a fully-authorized government delegation will participate in Abuja peace talks.

He hoped that the Darfur rebel groups should be represented in the talks with high-level delegations so as to reach a political solution to the Darfur crisis in order to realize peace and stability in the western region.

He described Moussa’s visit to Darfur on Friday as “very important and successful”, adding that the Arab League top official could contribute to restoring security and stability in Darfur.

Bashir assured his government will cooperate with the Arab League and the international community in helping the displaced and refugees return home.

Thousands have been killed and about two million people displaced in Darfur since rebels took up arms against the government in 2003.