04/05/2020 (Agence Europe) – The EU is determined to stand by the people of South Sudan in their quest for peace and prosperity and to help them cope with the consequences of the Covid-19 pandemic, emphasised the EU Council in conclusions adopted on 30 April. At the same time, the EU Council is seen to be sending a strong message to the authorities. It emphasises the importance of the demobilisation of former combatants to ensure the security of citizens and calls on the UN Security Council to renew the arms embargo. It also notes that the holding of free and credible general elections at the end of the transition period will be a further step towards stability (see EUROPE 12432/23), while deploring the widespread violations of human rights and the culture of impunity. The EU stands ready to adopt further restrictive measures if such violations continue or the peace process is undermined. (AN)