Canada hails Darfur peace deal
May 7, 2006 (OTTAWA) — Canadian Foreign Minister Peter MacKay applauded the Government of Sudan and the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) Minawi faction for signing the Darfur Peace Agreement in Abuja, at the peace talks led by the African Union (AU).
In a press statement issued on Saturday 6 May, he also welcomed the decision by a substantial number of members of the SLM/Abdul Wahid negotiating team to abide by the terms of the agreement, even though the movement itself has not yet signed.
“Canada is encouraged by the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement as an essential step toward a lasting peace for the people of Darfur. This agreement marks the successful conclusion of a very complex process,” said Minister MacKay.
“Reaching an agreement is only the first step. Parties must now work toward ensuring both the protection of civilians and access for humanitarian workers in the region. It is crucial that all people of Darfur support this agreement. Implementation and reconciliation must follow quickly and Canada, along with our international partners, will be there to support an end to the violence.”
“Canada is proud to have played a central diplomatic role in this process, in particular through the important work of Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada to the United Nations in New York Allan Rock and High Commissioner to Nigeria David Angell and their officials in Abuja,” said Minister MacKay. “Canada worked closely with the AU, the EU, the U.K. and the U.S. in brokering an agreement during the final days of these negotiations. These and other international partners were actively engaged throughout the two-year process.”
Since September 2004, Canada has contributed a total of $218 million in support of diplomatic, humanitarian and African Union-led efforts to end the violence and bring peace to the people of Darfur.
Canada remains a top contributor to the African Union Mission in Sudan, having provided 25 helicopters, two aircraft, 105 armoured personnel carriers and related equipment, as well as civilian police and military expertise.
(ST)