Brussels, 14/12/2010 (Agence Europe) - With just four weeks to go before the 9 January referendum on self-determination in Southern Sudan, the EU is keeping a close eye on the situation and is determined to accompany Sudan in this tricky transition period, and beyond. Monday's Foreign Affairs Council discussed in detail all possible scenarios for preparing for this. Rosalind Marsden of Britain, EU Special Representative and Head of Task Force Sudan, briefed ministers on options for contingency planning to provide a European humanitarian and security response (ranging from the peaceful outcome of the referendum and recognition of the results to the worst-case scenario - that of armed conflict). Her report was welcomed. All felt the situation was a cause for concern and that one should be prepared for any eventuality. Catherine Ashton told the press they had reiterated their commitment to defend the prosperity and security of all Sudan's inhabitants and that they hoped the parties involved would ensure the result of the referendum is acknowledged. They have, she said, focused on conflict prevention and on what will be appropriate during the post-referendum period. She added that the EU stands ready to step up its action to help both the north and the south of the country.
In its conclusions, the Council welcomes the completion of voter registration in Sudan as an important milestone in preparation for the referendum on self-determination for Southern Sudan, and full implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement. It reiterates “the commitment of the EU (…) to assist Sudan for the rest of the interim period and beyond in order to promote lasting peace, stability and prosperity for all Sudanese people, regardless of the outcome of the referendum”. The Council states its deep concern at the delay in resolving the issue of Abyei and calls on the parties concerned to find a rapid and equitable solution for maintaining peace and stability in the region. The Council confirms that the EU and its member states are ready to step up their commitment to the government of Sudan and to establish long term dialogue with it on issues of common interest.
The Council also undertakes to closely examine EU support for an international debt-relief effort for Sudan given the country's political progress. In the north-south border area, the EU is ready to support grass roots peace-building initiatives, improved livelihoods for vulnerable nomadic population groups, and the strengthening of the cross-border links to facilitate the free movement of people, goods and services. Also, the EU and its member states are ready to increase their support to Southern Sudan regardless of the outcome of the referendum, and the EU is ready to accelerate its efforts to support basic services and agricultural development. The Council calls on the government of Sudan and on all armed movements to put an end to the conflict in Darfur. (A.N./transl.jl)