U.S. Mission to the United Nations
New York, New York
May 14, 2020
AS DELIVERED
Thank you, Mr. President.
The United States thanks fellow Council members for demonstrating their ongoing support to the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei. We would also like to extend particular thanks to Ethiopia for its contributions to UNISFA.
As both Sudan and South Sudan respond to COVID-19 and engage in their own political transitions, the people of Abyei must not be forgotten. They deserve to live peacefully, without fear of attack or intimidation. Abyei’s women in particular should be supported to fully, effectively, and meaningfully participate in discussions about their own security and future. Reports of violence and tensions in Abyei are disturbing, and the continued loss of life remains unacceptable. We call for restraint and dialogue from the local communities, and look to Sudan and South Sudan to deliver on establishing temporary security and administrative arrangements that can provide a framework for lasting peace in this sensitive area. This step is critical to supporting long-term peace efforts in both South Sudan and Sudan and the broader region.
With this renewed mandate, the Security Council reiterates that Sudan and South Sudan should remove all obstacles to implementation of UNISFA’s mandate, including by allowing the deployment of UNISFA personnel to improve protection of civilians. We also reiterate our call for senior UN officials and the African Union to step up their engagement with Sudan and South Sudan to maintain momentum towards resolving Abyei’s status and ensuring UNISFA can fully implement its mandate.
The United States remains committed to supporting peace and security in Abyei, and in Sudan and South Sudan.
Thank you.
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