Germany extends peace mission in South Sudan

Oct 5, 2006 (BERLIN) — The German government has given the green light for a further extension of the participation of the German armed forces in South Sudan peace mission

Accordingly, the German soldiers are to participate in the mission for another six months beyond 8 October, if there is a corresponding UN mandate and agreement of the Bundestag — German parliament — announced government spokesperson Ulrich Wilhelm in Berlin.

At the same time, Wilhelm pointed out that the UN Security Council will deal with the question of extending the mandate on 8 October.

However, it is not yet clear whether it will again be only a short-term extension or whether the mandate will be valid for a longer period of time.

If the Security Council, before expiration of the six-months mandate, were to change the substance of the mandate so that it would be significant for the mission framework and the tasks of the German soldiers concerned, the federal government will again involve the Bundestag.

Since April 2005, Germany has sent up to 75 unarmed military observers and staff officers to monitor the peace agreement in South Sudan.

(ST/DDP)