Eritrea says ready to mediate between Sudan govt, Darfur rebels

Nov 4, 2006 (KHARTOUM) — Eritrea expressed readiness to mediate between the Sudanese government and Darfur rebel groups opposed to Darfur Peace Agreement signed in Abuja in May.

In a press conference, Yemane Gebreab who was in Khartoum for consultations with Sudanese officials, said that the Eritrean delegation for mediation has received positive response from both the Sudanese government of national unity and rebel groups.

The head of political affairs of the ruling Eritrean People’s Front for Democracy and Justice, Yemane Gerbeab has held explorative meetings with the government and rebel movements that did not sign the Abuja agreement to evaluate the possibility of starting negotiations between the two sides as part of a new initiative aimed at completing the agreement.

Gebreab, told reporters at the end of his visit to Khartoum Friday that he had felt “a desire on both sides to begin negotiating but we have not reached a decision on when to begin”.

He reaffirmed that his government is prepared and keen on dialogue with all the factions which did not sign the agreement.

“Our relations with the [rebel] movements are good and we have therefore carried out explorative meetings with the two sides and will continue our efforts and meetings to evaluate the possibility of starting negotiations,” he said.

He further stated that the Asmara Peace Agreement signed between the Sudanese government of national unity and the East Sudan Front would play a major role in strengthening relations between the two countries.

Yemane Gebreab was the top mediator in the Eastern Sudan Peace Talks.

(ST)