US encourages SLM rebels to work to end violence in Darfur

The Embassy of the United States of America – Khartoum

Nov 20, 2005 (KHARTOUM) — In a November 19 meeting in El Fasher, Darfur, co-hosted by the United States and the African Union, leaders of the Sudan Liberation Movemement/Army (SLM/A), including Mini Arkoi Minawi and Abdel Wahid Mohamed el Nur, met together to discuss preparations for Round VII of the African Union-mediated peace talks on Darfur, slated to commence on November 21 in Abuja, Nigeria.

The meeting took place at the African Union Headquarters in El Fasher, North Darfur.

The members of the SLM/A reiterated their plans to participate in the peace talks, restore the cease-fire, intensify efforts to achieve a political settlement, and consider elements of a common negotiating position.

The Government of the United States commends efforts by all parties to continue the talks in Abuja, with an eye to reaching a successful conclusion by the end of the year.

We encourage negotiators to work in earnest to end the cycle of violence in Darfur.