US backs South Sudan mediation for peace in Uganda

Feb 1, 2007 (WASHINGTON) — The United States expressed opposition Thursday to efforts to end the South Sudan government’s role as mediator and host of peace talks aiming to end a long war in Northern Uganda.

“We are concerned that demands to change the mediator and venue of the talks will only delay peace in the region and further the suffering of displaced northern Ugandans,” State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said.

He added that the United States continues to provide humanitarian assistance to victims of the Lord’s Resistance Army in Northern Uganda.

In addition, he said, the United States has been promoting reconciliation and supporting the reintegration of former abductees and ex-combatants into their communities.

(AP)