Sudanese FM, French officials discuss Chad and Darfur

March 26, 2008 (KHARTOUM) — Sudanese Foreign Minister discussed with the French Ambassador in Khartoum and France’s envoy for Darfur, Sudan-Chad relations and France efforts to bring peace in Darfur.

Deng Alor discussed on Wednesday with Ambassador Christine ROBICHON and the French special envoy for Darfur peace talks, Issa Maraut, the outcome of Dakar nonaggression agreement signed by Sudan and Chad on the sideline of the Islamic Conference on March 13.

Since, Chad and Sudan have accused each other of breaking Dakar agreement.

Further, Issa Maraut briefed the Sudanese minister of Geneva meeting which brought together representatives of the five permanents members in the UN Security Council, UN and African Union envoys for Darfur and the leader of the rebel SLM Abdel-Wahid al-Nur on March 18.

The French official said the meeting was part of France’s commitment for a solution to the Darfur crisis. He further said it was an opportunity to establish a dialogue between al-Nur and the AU envoy, Salim Ahmed Salim and other international players.

Al-Nur had refused to deal with Salim since his rejection of Darfur Peace Agreement signed in May 2006 between Sudanese government and the SLM led by Minni Minawi.

Sudanese pro-ruling National Congress Party media accuse France regularly of supporting ” the Chadian aggressions against Sudan.”

Yesterday, the Sudan Media Centre, which is close to the intelligence services, reported that Chad and the rebel JEM are preparing an attack against Sudan with the French support.

(ST)