Netherlands voices concern about stability in Darfur

KHARTOUM, Apr 3, 2005 (Xinhua) — A visiting Dutch official voiced on Sunday her country’s concern about stability and security in Sudan’s western Darfur region.

Speaking to reporters, Dutch Minister of Development Cooperation Agnes Van Ardenne said the Netherlands was committed to offering 50 million euros (65 million US dollars) after the Sudanese government and Darfur rebel groups signed a peace agreement to conflict.

She said that of the total, 30 million euros (39 million dollars) will be allocated to affected states, while calling on the international community to help the African Union’s mission to Darfur restore peace there.

Agnes arrived here Friday on a four-day visit to Sudan for discussions on the Oslo donors conference due on April 11-12.