Arab League supports Sudan’s new strategy on peace in Darfur

September 11, 2010 (KHARTOUM) – The League of Arab States has declared its support for the new strategy of the Sudanese government to achieve peace in Darfur saying it will boost the chances of a comprehensive peace in the troubled region.

Ambassador Salah Halima Arab League envoy to Sudan told the official SUNA that the new strategy put forward by the Sudanese government to reach peace in Darfur, has all the support from the Arab League because the government works to achieve peace and security as well as stability as a sovereign state.

Since last July Khartoum has endorsed a new policy aiming to encourage the return of more than two million people displaced by the war waged by Khartoum against the rebel groups in the region since 2003. The plan also focuses on recovery and development.

The Arab League envoy also praised Khartoum efforts to promote the voluntary return of the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) to their villages.

He said the league, which has established several villages, intends to convert it into centers of urban development with the participation of many Arab organizations that operate in their respective areas. He added that the vision of the return contributes to achieving security, stability and promote peace.

The envoy who commended the return as part of the new strategy further said UNAMID and other organizations like the Islamic Conference Organization will join the ongoing efforts in the areas of recovery.

Sudan said this strategy should be implemented parallely to the Doha talks with the rebel groups. However, all the rebel groups even those who negotiate in Doha, Liberation and Justice Movement have slammed the strategy.

Halima praised the efforts exerted by the State of Qatar to end Darfur conflict highlighting the regional and international support for Doha, the venue of the peace talks with rebel groups.

“Doha accomplished a lot about the file of the negotiations and I think that the achievements of Doha, and what will be achieved by the new strategy of the Sudanese government would improve security and stability,” he said.

“And thus that may push those who did not participate or froze their participation to reconsider their position from in the peace process and engage in the Doha negotiations.”

(ST)