EU alarmed at renewed fighting in Sudan’s Darfur

Sept 8, 2006 (HELSINKI) — The European Union Friday strongly condemned the violation of a cease-fire by Sudanese government and rebel groups in Darfur and expressed alarm at the renewed fighting in the region.

The E.U. said it was deeply concerned by “the further deterioration of the security and humanitarian situation in the region,” in a statement issued by Finland, which currently holds the rotating presidency of the 25-nation bloc.

“The presidency condemns this continuing violation of the cease-fire, particularly the violence directed at the civilian population and providers of humanitarian assistance,” the statement said. It also urged all parties to respect human rights and allow deliveries of humanitarian aid.

Earlier Friday, the U.N.’s refugee chief Antonio Guterres said the worsening violence in Sudan’s conflict-ravaged region is threatening the entire region, and warned that Sudanese troops could be preparing for a major military offensive.

The E.U. said it is “deeply concerned about the recent military build up in Darfur and the reinforcement of government forces in the region…and condemns the reported military attacks by both the Sudanese government and the rebel groups.”

(AP/ST)