British government condemns attack on Kordufan oil field
December 13, 2007 (KHARTOUM) — British Government today has slammed Darfur rebel attack on Chinese-run oil field in central Sudan saying it aims to increase instability in the country.
“We condemn the attacks on a Chinese-run oil rig in Kordufan State in Sudan, claimed by the rebel faction Justice and Equality Movement (JEM) led by Khalil Ibrahim.” Said the a statement by a spokesperson of the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).
On Tuesday 11 December the leader of the rebel JEM said attacked a field in Kordofan’s Heglig area, run by the Great Wall Oil Company of China. However Sudanese army denied that the assailants damaged the oil installation.
The Sudan Armed Forces said a group of 20 persons tried to attack al-Rahaw camp out side Dakhirah well in South Kordufan State.
Ibrahim Khalil pledged to launch more attacks against oil exploitations in the country.
The statement which was distributed by the UK Embassy in Khartoum described as “unacceptable” attacks attempting to take the conflict beyond Dafur. It urged Darfur conflict parties to observe full cessation of hostilities.
At the end of last October Sudanese government announced full cessation of hostilities to create a conducive environment for the African Union – UN sponsored peace talks in Sirte, Libya.
“The UK continues to make clear to rebel movements and the Government of Sudan that the situation in Darfur is unacceptable, and that urgent progress must be made.” Said the statement.
“Only a political process can solve the Darfur crisis. We urge rebel movements to unify further and prepare for negotiations. Rebel leaders must come forward to talk when their people’s welfare depends so clearly on securing peace.” FCO spokesperson.
Last October JEM rebels seized five hostages when they attacked Kordofan’s Defra oil field in an assault they said was meant to send China a message to stop supporting the Sudanese government through oil revenues.
Beijing’s ambassador to Khartoum last month voiced deep concern at Darfur rebel threats to target Chinese peacekeepers being deployed as part of a bolstered African Union-United Nations force in Darfur.
(ST)