Chad calls for a lasting solution to the Darfur crisis
September 29, 2008 (UNITED NATIONS) — Chadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Moussa Faki Mahamat called Monday before the UN General Assembly for a lasting solution to the crisis in Darfur, which affects Chad due to interlocking conflicts, large refugee populations and historic economic and social ties to the region.
“I would like to commend the efforts of our Organization in the eradication of hotbeds of tension which are major obstacles to achieving development goals. The Darfur crisis is an example by the weight it does suffer in Chad because of its economic, social and environmental [impact],” said the minister.
“The presence in eastern Chad of 290,000 Sudanese refugees and 180,000 Chadian displaced is a matter of great concern for both Chad and the international community,” whose unprecedented mobilization the government welcomes, said Mahamat. Nevertheless, the fate of host populations deserves greater attention to restore the balance upset by this massive influx, he added.
“In this part of the world, a real tragedy is taking place that involves our collective conscience. This is the place to launch a vibrant appeal for a lasting solution to this crisis,” he said.
According to the minister, “since the outbreak of the crisis in Darfur, Chad has spared no effort to help our Sudanese brothers to find a peaceful solution to the conflict between them.”
“Recognizing the close link between the stability of Chad and the settlement of the Darfur crisis, it has always worked for the normalization of relations between the two countries.
“It is in this spirit that the Chadian government has welcomed the Sudanese decision to restore diplomatic relations with Chad at the meeting of the Contact Group responsible for the implementation of the Dakar Agreement held in Asmara on September 12,” he added.
(ST)