Hope of democratic dialogue in Sudan

The UK, the US and Norway, which make up the Troika, issued a joint statement today supporting the African Union’s efforts to bring about a ceasefire in the states of South Kordofan and Blue Nile. ‘It’s vital to bring together all the parties in Sudan in a national dialogue to discuss the country’s political, economic and social challenges,’ said Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende.

The African Union (AU) is responsible for facilitating peace negotiations in South Kordofan and Blue Nile. The negotiations will be led by former President of South Africa Thabo Mbeki.

‘Both the African Union and the leader of the negotiations, Thabo Mbeki, are competent, neutral actors who are playing key roles in this work. Norway is pleased to note the positive developments that we are now seeing. I have personally thanked Mr Mbeki for his efforts to get the dialogue process back on track,’ said Mr Brende.

The joint Troika statement points out that there is no military solution to the conflicts in Sudan and that national dialogue is the best way forward to achieve sustainable peace.

‘If Mr Mbeki is to succeed in his task, the national dialogue must be broad and inclusive and conducted within a framework of freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and transparency. Key issues such as governance, political inclusiveness, resource-sharing, identity and social equality need to be discussed at national level. The national dialogue must include the Government of Sudan, armed and unarmed opposition movements, political parties, representatives of civil society and of every region of Sudan,’ said Mr Brende.

• The joint Troika statement (pdf)