Egypt says keen to end Sudan-Chad tension

May 14, 2009 (CAIRO) — Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that Cairo is following with deep concern the continuing tension in relations between Sudan and Chad. Adding that Egypt is keen to make every possible effort to end this dispute

The statement comes after incursion by the Chadian rebels into eastern part of their country from Sudan on May 4 and clashes with the forces loyal to President Idriss Deby two days after the signing of normalization deal between the two countries in Doha.

Deputy Foreign Minister for African affairs, Ambassador Mona Omer on Wednesday May 13 said that Egypt was watching with great concern the continuing tension between the two brotherly countries Sudan and Chad.

Omer further said that Egypt is keen on achieving peace and understanding between the two neighboring countries.

Pointing out that Egypt had been in contact with all concerned parties to urge them to exercise restraint and refrain from making any statements that would escalate tensions between the two countries.

She added Egypt supports all efforts to achieve peace between Sudan and Chad, stressing that it works in this regard, bilaterally through direct contacts with both Sudan and Chad and collectively through the African Union, which appealed to Sudan and Chad to exercise restraint and abide by agreements signed between them.

Yesterday the Chadian President said in public rally that his government is considering severing diplomatic relations with Sudan. Deby also rejected African Union efforts to settle the tension with Khartoum.

(ST)