UN committed to ensuring stability in Abyei region, says official
February 26, 2025 (ABYEI) – The United Nations peacekeeping chief, Jean-Pierre Lacroix has emphasized the importance of maintaining stability in the disputed oil producing region of Abyei.
He was speaking at the end of a two-day visit to the area claimed by both Sudan and South Sudan.
During the meeting with various stakeholders and representatives from the two countries, Lacroix said the UN is committed towards implementing the mandate its peacekeeping mission in Abyei (UNISFA).
“We remain committed to engaging on Abyei’s final status and securing additional support for the population. We will continue to advocate with all relevant parties to address the challenges facing the area. I urge all stakeholders to work closely with UNISFA to ensure stability and the most effective use of resources,” he said.
The meeting, UNISFA said in a press release on Wednesday, focused on Abyei’s unresolved final status, the proliferation of arms, and the worsening humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict in Sudan and severe flooding in South Sudan.
Lacroix emphasized the urgent need for increased humanitarian assistance to address the dire conditions faced by Abyei’s population. He further underscored the importance of grassroots engagement, sustained dialogue between Sudan and South Sudan, and the protection of Abyei from the spillover effects of regional conflicts.
The United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) was established in 2011 under UN Security Council Resolution 1990 to monitor the demilitarized zone, facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid, and support the resolution of Abyei’s final status.
(ST)