Ki-Moon, S. Sudan’s Kiir discuss new cabinet
August 9, 2013 (JUBA) – The United Nations secretary-general, Ban Ki-Moon on Tuesday phoned South Sudan president, Salva Kiir to discuss the latter’s recently formed cabinet.
The UN chief, in a telephone message, reportedly informed the South Sudan leader how he closely monitored the situation in the young nation, saying he was pleased about the calm that prevailed.
The world body, its secretary general pledged, will closely work with the new nation’s government, including the new cabinet, most of whose members were approved by parliament this week.
Ki-Moon, however, expressed concerns about the situation in the country largest state of Jonglei, and called on the president’s government, including the national army (SPLA), to ensure protection of civilians.
He specifically reminded the South Sudan leader regarding an earlier commitment he made to ensure accountability for any abuses committed by the SPLA.
Meanwhile, the UN chief lauded the government of Sudan’s decision to postpone the deadline of shutting down the oil flow from South Sudan until 21 August.
He further assured the South Sudan leader, during their telephone conversation, of his support for the latter’s efforts to bring economic, social prosperity and political stability to the two-year old country.
(ST)