US official meets Darfur rebel leader in Paris

November 27, 2007 (PARIS) — The US Assistant Secretary of State for African Affairs, Jendayi Frazer, on Tuesday discussed here with the Chairman of the Sudan Liberation Movement, Abdelwahid Mohamed al-Nur, ways to end the ongoing conflict in the war-torn region of Darfur.

The influential rebel leader told Sudan Tribune that the two parties exchanged their views on the ongoing efforts to end the four year conflict in Darfur. He said that deployment of the peacekeeping for in Darfur and the security of civilians were on the top agenda of the meeting.

Al-Nur added he discussed the political process with the US diplomat. He underscored that there is a need for a political solution for Darfur crisis which a political problem.

He described the meeting as positive and constructive. He also hailed the serious efforts exerted by Bush Administration for peace in Darfur.

Following the unsuccessful meeting organised by the joint AU-UN mediation following its rejection by the main rebel movements, the US administration tries to explore new approach to bring together the parties to agree on lasting peace in the region.

The founder of the rebel SLM requests the deployment of the international peacekeeping force in Darfur and creation of conducive environment before the political process.

(ST)