High-Level Meeting on Sudan

Remarks by Jonas Gahr Støre (*), Norway's Minister of Foreign Affairs 

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Secretary-General,
Ladies and gentlemen,

 

• We have entered a critical period in the history of Sudan. Whatever the outcome of the referendum on self-determination for the people of Southern Sudan, the future - not only of Sudan, but also of the whole region – depends on having an orderly process in the time ahead. It is essential that preparations for the referendum are conducted in a transparent manner. The vote itself must be free and fair. A proper process will give a credible result and credibility gives legitimacy.

 

• Remember: the CPA does not only specify one referendum - but two. The referendum on whether Abyei will remain in Northern Sudan, or join Southern Sudan, will take place at the same time as the Southern Sudan referendum. The CPA clearly states that in Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile there must be popular consultations on the future status of these states.

 

• In recent weeks there has been progress with regard to the referendum. I appreciate the Parties’ commitment to dealing with outstanding issues in an expeditious manner. Yet, the fact remains that key elements of the CPA have not been fully implemented and talks on post-CPA arrangements are “sluggish”.

 

• So, this is serious. - Because now we have a situation where many complicated tasks must be completed in very little time. As said to the Parties when the Minister visited Sudan in May-June: this is your process. Which means: you will “own” the success of an orderly transition to the post-CPA period, and you will be responsible for a failure. Our role is to support you in your endeavours.

 

• Moreover, nobody is a more important partner to you than the so-called “other side”. If you are able find sustainable solutions, the benefits you will reap will far outweigh any incentive that any of us can put on the table. And vice versa, if you fail to find good solutions, the negative consequences will be far more serious than any disincentives I can think of.

 

• The petroleum sector is one example. The CPA provided a framework for the management of the sector and for revenue sharing. The outcome of the referendum will have implications for how this is done in the next period. However, irrespective of the outcome of the referendum, I believe you can find a win-win solution. I am pleased that our experts have been able to work together with you on these issues during the interim period. And I can assure you that we will also continue to do so after the referendum.

 

• Negotiations on post-CPA issues need to address the broader institutional framework for political and economic relations between the North and South.  The governors’ conference that brings together the key decision-makers in the ten states that lie along the North-South border is an example of the way forward. It provides an opportunity for both debate on pending issues and efficient decision-making. 

 

• Now, what is our role, as members of the international community and friends of Sudan, and (some of us) as witnesses to the CPA: we must continue to support you and work together with you to find good solutions to the issues you are facing with regard to the CPA and negotiations on post-referendum arrangements. As members of the international community, we can assist the Parties to the CPA to move forward if we address the legitimate concerns that both of you have regarding the period after the CPA.

 

• The recent meeting in Brussels on capacity building for Southern Sudan is a good example of the kind of exercises we need. We look forward to participating in similar meetings that relate to other parts of Sudan.

 

• Norway’s commitment is to Sudan, and this commitment will remain, irrespective of the outcome of the referendum. - This means that we will continue to engage with the whole country if there is a vote for unity, and we will engage with both states if the people of Southern Sudan vote for secession.

 

• To conclude: this is a decisive period for Sudan and the world community. In the remaining weeks (before the referendum) it is of utmost importance that you make progress on the most critical issues. The structures are in place and we are ready to help. I urge you to come together and make bold decisions. It is now time to act. Thank you.

 

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(*) These remarks were held by Ambassador Morten Wetland on behalf of the Minister.