EU ready to provide training for police forces in Darfur

KHARTOUM, Oct 13, 2004 (SUNA) — The delegation of the European Troika Wednesday announced readiness of the European Union to send police forces to Sudan to assist in training the Sudanese police forces who are working in Darfur region.

Chairman of the European Union’s delegation, Dr Bernard Rudolf Bot, said in a press conference in Khartoum that the delegation of the European Troika came to Sudan to be acquainted with the real humanitarian, and security situation, as well as the progress of the peace talks toward achievement of final peace in Sudan.

Dr. Bot, who arrived in Khartoum on Tuesday, explained that the EU delegation discussed with President Al-Bashir progress of the peace negotiations in Nairobi and the efforts of Sudan government to contain the crisis of Darfur peacefully, as well as the talks of Cairo between the government and the National democratic Alliance (NDA).

The European Union’s official said that the meeting reviewed the security and humanitarian situation in Darfur as well as issues of human rights and the future of Sudan after the signing of the peace agreement. He described his talks with the Sudanese officials as constructive and frank.

The Netherlands Minister said that his mission comes to discuss the possible assistance of the EU to Sudan in the peace era and Sudan implementation to its agreement with the UN regarding Darfur issue.

He also commended the great progress realized by Sudan, expressing hope that the African Union plans to increase its forces in Sudan. He stressed the importance of disarming the militia of Janjaweed, protecting the refugees and resuming talks with Darfur.