Luxembourg, 16/06/2008 (Agence Europe) - During an exchange of views on Sudan on 16 June, in which Louis Moreno Ocampo, the prosecutor at the International Criminal Court (ICC), participated, EU27 foreign affairs ministers reiterated their serious concerns about deteriorating security conditions in Sudan, which are compromising implementation of the comprehensive peace plan and the possibility for a peaceful settlement to the conflict in Darfur. They also reaffirmed their support for the ICC and criticised the Sudanese government for not having cooperated with it.
In its conclusions, the Council explains that Ahmad Harun and Ali Kushayb are expected to be handed over to the ICC. The Council is particularly concerned by the prosecutor's report that decisions to commit, deny or disguise crimes should be dealt with at the highest level. The Council is therefore prepared to envisage sanctions against those responsible for non-cooperation with the ICC.
The Council considers that the comprehensive peace agreement and the provisional national constitution are the basis for democratic transformation, peace and stability throughout Sudan. It is calling on all parties to play a constructive role in the preparation of elections planned for 2009, particularly by approving the electoral law.
In the context of military clashes in Abyei, the Council states that it hopes that the agreement concluded on 8 June between the National Congress Party and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement will settle the dispute and provide a lasting solution in the implementation of the Abyei protocol. It is calling on the two parties to grant unhindered access to the United Nations Mission in Sudan (UNMIS) and to humanitarian organisations, including facilitation of an independent investigation into the recent events in the entire Abyei area. The Council explains that the EU stands ready to assist in meeting the humanitarian needs of the people displaced from Abyei, and the recovery of Abyei town to allow for a return in total safety of the town's inhabitants.
The conclusions reiterate the EU's strong condemnation of the attack by the Justice and Equality Movement against the Sudanese government at the beginning of May, as well as bombings and attacks on civilians recently perpetrated by government forces and their militias in Darfur.
The Council emphasises the need to accelerate the United Nations - African Union Mission in Darfur (UNAMID) and for it to be adequately equipped to fulfil the mandate conferred on it by the Security Council, especially the protection of civilians.
The Council has condemned recent attacks on this peace mission and again calls on the Sudanese government to respect the agreement on the Status of Force Agreement, particularly the free movement of UNAMID. It also urges the rapid deployment of UN and AU soldiers and police officers.
The Council is concerned by the persistent attacks on civilians, peacekeepers and humanitarian personnel, as well as by violence against women and sexual crimes. It therefore points out that in this regard it is prepared to take new measures, particularly at a UN level, “against any party that undermines peace and security in Darfur and the region by committing acts of violence against any party that obstructs humanitarian access to those in need”.
To alleviate the tension between Sudan and Chad, the Council is urging both countries to adhere to the 13 March 2008 Dakar Agreement. It also welcomes the ongoing diplomatic efforts carried out by the AU and recalls that EUFOR Tchad/RCA is a key contributor to bringing security to the region in which it is working together with MINURCAT and UNAMID. (A.N./transl.rh.)