Brussels, 02/05/2016 (Agence Europe) - On Friday 29 April, the EU hailed the formation of a transitional government of national unity in South Sudan the same day, saying it was “long overdue” after over two years of civil war. The EU hopes this will finally enable dividends of peace to be paid to the people.
“Now the leadership must work to deliver peace and security, as well as humanitarian access for the people of South Sudan. The challenges are tremendous and the task of restoring normality and hope is the final goal of this transitional period”, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini and European Commissioner for Humanitarian Aid and Crisis Management Christos Stylianides stated in a joint press release.
They underlined the initial priorities, which they said must be “to end persistent conflict, abuse of civilians, violations of international humanitarian law and to contribute to the stability of its neighbours in the region”.
Stating that “the worsening humanitarian situation and the suffering of the people of South Sudan have reached extreme proportions”, Mogherini and Stylianides called on the transitional government to ensure unhindered humanitarian assistance.
Riek Machar's return to South Sudan has been slow in coming. It was provided for in the peace negotiations that were conducted under the aegis of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD). Machar, the former rebel leader, is now vice-president to President Salva Kir. (Original version in French by Aminata Niang)