Africa should play a role in Darfur crisis resolution – Senegal
Oct 13, 2006 (KHARTOUM) — The visiting Senegalese Foreign Minister affirmed the importance African role in the resolution of Darfur crisis saying African could sit with hands folded while war waging there.
Senegalese Foreign Minister, Abdalla Wad, Dr. Cheikh Tidiane Gadio affirmed importance of Africa’ solidarity with Sudan in the resolution of Darfur crisis.
“We can not accept the role of spectators in Darfur crisis, we are moving from our deep belief of necessity of realizing security and stability and unity of Sudan”, Senegalese FM said.
“We are here for addressing issue concerning African continent not only Sudan.” Gadio told journalists following meeting with President Omar Al-Bashir Thursday.
He indicated to role being played by the African leaders in settlement of Darfur crisis, expressing hope that the quartet summit between Sudan, Gabon, Nigeria and Senegal to take place soon in Khartoum.
Meanwhile, Nigerian Foreign Minister, Envoy of Nigerian President Prof. Joy Ogwu following his meeting with President Al-Bashir expressed appreciation over great response he found from Al-Bashir towards the quartet summit, saying the time of holding the summit will be determined by Presidents.
Ogwu affirmed importance of consultations among African leaders for restoration of situations in Darfur to normalcy. She disclosed that the initiative aims to formulate visions and ideas, which could contribute to resolution of the crisis in the region.
Sudanese foreign minister Lam Akol, in a press statement after the meeting, said President al-Bashir had thanked the three presidents for the initiative and their deep concern for the Sudanese issue.
Lam added that Congolese President and current chairman of the AU Denis Sassou-Nguesso, and the Libyan leader Mua’mmar Al-Qadhafi had welcomed the initiative and President Al-Bashir had promised to look into the initiative and respond to it soon.
(ST)