Brussels, 06/09/2002 (Agence Europe) - On 5 September, the Danish Presidency issued the following declaration on behalf of the European Union concerning the suspension of peace negotiations in Sudan:
"The European Union is deeply concerned at the news of the suspension of the peace negotiations in Machakos. The consequences for both parties of a complete breakdown in the peace process would be very serious in terms of further human loss, economic standstill and stunted development. The EU strongly urges all parties to urgently re-establish the basis for a resumption of the negotiations with a view to returning to the negotiating table as soon as possible. The EU fully supports the continued efforts of General Sumbeiywo and urges the observers to the peace process, including the members of the IGAD Partners Forum, to remain involved and to use all their influence on the parties to find a solution to the current impasse. The EU reiterates its readiness to give strong support to a peace agreement and accompany Sudan on a path of peace consolidation. The Central and Eastern European countries associated with the European Union, the associated countries Cyprus, Malta and Turkey, and the EFTA countries, members of the European Economic Area, align themselves with this declaration".