S. Sudan VP, joint mediator discuss peace in Darfur
November 16, 2013 (KHARTOUM) – South Sudan vice-president, James Wani Igga met this week in Juba with the visiting head of the AU-UN peacekeeping mission in Darfur, Mohamed Ibn Chambas to discuss the ongoing efforts to bring peace in Sudan’s troubled western region..
The visit, a statement extended to Sudan Tribune noted, is part of a larger tour that will include a number of Sudan’s neighbours with a view to underscore the importance of inter-regional cooperation to resolve the Darfur conflict not only for its people, but peace and stability of the entire region.
According to Chambas, lasting peace in Darfur was necessary for the realisation of regional stability, thereby opening new horizons for future development and economic growth that would benefit the entire sub-region.
“We congratulate Khartoum and Juba for the goodwill and cordial relations they have generated and maintained over the past few months”, said the chief mediator.
UNAMID [UN-AU Mission in Darfur] will seek to foster this bonhomie among the two countries to achieve inclusive peace and security in Darfur, he added.
Igga, on his part, welcomed the chief mediator’s efforts in widening the opportunities for enhanced partnership among Sudan’s neighbours, particularly South Sudan.
South Sudan, its vice-president stressed, will support all the mediation efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the troubled region.
Khartoum and Juba traded accusations of supporting rebel groups from both sides. However the two countries are now working to normalise their relations and pledged to stop harbouring or providing any support to the insurgents.
During the UNAMID chief held consultations with officials from the UN mission in the country (UNMISS) aimed at exploring ways of collaboration to enhance the achievement of their respective mandates.
(ST)