Foreign Minister Støre condemns violence in Sudan

“The recent incidents of violence in Sudan, in the disputed area of Abyei, are clear and worrying violations of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

During the weekend, northern Sudan Armed Forces attacked and took military control of the city of Abyei. In addition, the authorities in Khartoum unilaterally decided to dismiss the region’s administration. The military offensive was prompted by an attack on a UN-led convoy of northern Sudanese forces, a transfer of troops that was approved in advance by both parties’ military authorities.

“Thursday’s attack on the northern Sudanese forces was unacceptable, and can also be considered to be an attack against the UN. The Sudan Armed Forces’ military assault on a number of targets in the Abyei area is nevertheless a gross overreaction and an irresponsible act that could, in the worst case, jeopardise the peace process. I urge the parties to withdraw all armed forces from Abyei immediately in accordance with previously concluded agreements,” said Mr Støre.

The conflict over Abyei has flared up at a critical point – less than seven weeks before South Sudan gains independence on 9 July.

“I am concerned about the consequences this may have for the negotiations on outstanding partition issues between the north and south,” said Mr Støre. “The short time remaining before Sudan is divided must be used at the negotiating table and not on the battlefield. The conflict over Abyei cannot be resolved by military means. I urge the parties to continue negotiations on all pending issues, including a permanent solution for Abyei in accordance with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the ruling of the arbitration court.”