South Sudan, African Union agree to end war in Sudan
July 28, 2023 (JUBA) – South Sudan and the African Union have agreed to end the ongoing conflict in neigbouring Sudan, highlighting the seriousness with which the region and continental body are concerned about peace and stability.
James Pitia Morgan, who represents South Sudan as its ambassador to the African Union, IGAD, and United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, explained in a statement broadcast by the South Sudan Broadcasting Corporation that President Kiir dedicates time and efforts to ensure peace and stability return to Sudan.
President Kiir in a meeting with representatives of the African Union on Thursday says he has had successful and cordial discussions with key regional leaders to expedite coordinated efforts and mechanisms to spur ceasefire talks between rival Sudanese factions are convened.
The convening of the ceasefire talks currently underway in Saudi Arabia, according to President Kiir, represents an opportunity that should be sustained in full compliance with the resolutions of the leaders from the countries sharing direct borders with Sudan who converged at a summit held in Egypt on July 13, 2023.
The South Sudanese leader expressed his readiness and the entire transitional government of national unity to engage in any efforts to stop the war in Sudan. He also called for unifying visions and initiatives to resolve the crisis in line with the roadmap developed by the African Union and other initiatives, including important mechanisms, such as a ceasefire and humanitarian aid, as well as the establishment of a comprehensive political dialogue, which have been developed to address the crisis in Sudan.
The roadmap developed by the African Union and the initiative of the Quartet countries of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, (IGAD) will be coordinated with the concerned countries, and international organizations like the United Nations, and the Arab League.
Kiir emphasized that the political mechanism should be derived from the Sudanese people without any external interference and stressed that the role of neighbouring countries is vital, and efforts must be coordinated to preserve Sudan and its neighbours.
The IGAD, according to Kiir, prioritizes finding ways to restore peace and stability in Sudan. He pointed out that the council’s meetings in Sudan have reiterated calls for an immediate cessation of all armed conflicts in order to stop the bloodshed and preserve the safety and security of civilians.
He highlighted the efforts in coordinating with the United Nations, AU and relevant humanitarian organizations, given the significant challenge to peace and security in Sudan. He reiterated that what is happening in Sudan is an internal matter that should never be interfered with so as not to inflame the status quo.
He emphasized the stance of his administration not to interfere in the internal affairs of other countries, warning of the consequences of interfering in Sudan’s internal affairs.
(ST)