Sudan Seeks OIC Support For Peace Efforts

PUTRAJAYA, Oct. 12, 2003 (Bernama) — Sudan will seek support from member countries of the Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC) for the reconstruction of the war-ravaged southern Sudan and the peace process which is nearing a comprehensive settlement.

Sudan’s ambassador to Malaysia Mohamed Adam Ismail said Sunday that President Umar Hasan Ahmad al-Bashir would seek assistance from the OIC countries in these efforts at the ongoing 10th OIC Summit.

He said the Sudanese government was expected to sign the peace agreement with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Army (SPLA) in two to three weeks, thus ending Africa’s longest civil war.

The peace effort is now in the final stage with several agreements reached, such as those on security and sharing of political power.

“We look to our member countries and friends to support the reconstruction efforts and the peace process,” he told Bernama here.

Mohamed Adam said Khartoum had so far received good response to the reconstruction efforts with the Cairo-based Arab League initiating a fund for the reconstruction of southern Sudan.

“We hope that the OIC countries will also follow suit…that the IDB (Islamic Development Bank) and other countries will also support the peace process and the reconstruction efforts.

“The support could come in the form of a resolution or at least a strong pledge by all members,” he said.

He said President Bashir would also deliver a speech at the OIC Business Forum organised by the Asian Strategy & Leadership Institute (Asli).