Sudan and South Sudan leaders discussed rising unrest following a UN helicopter attack that killed 27. The leaders reaffirmed commitments to mutual cooperation and stability amidst ongoing conflicts involving political and ethnic groups. The situation has escalated, prompting the US to evacuate personnel due to security concerns.
The leaders of Sudan and South Sudan engaged in a telephone conversation to address the recent unrest in South Sudan. This dialogue involved Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, the leader of Sudan’s Sovereign Council, and South Sudanese President Salva Kiir, and focused on their bilateral relations and pressing issues of mutual interest. The Sudanese council reported that Burhan expressed his concerns while acknowledging the ongoing security situation in South Sudan.
Burhan affirmed, “The Sudanese government is keen on sustaining security and stability in South Sudan.” In a reciprocal commitment, President Kiir emphasized his administration’s dedication to enhancing cooperation between the two nations, stating, “The South Sudanese government is keen on establishing security and stability and normalizing security conditions in the country.”
This communication occurred shortly after the United States issued an order for the departure of nonemergency government personnel from South Sudan due to escalating security risks. The US Department of State highlighted that “armed conflict is ongoing” and noted that firearms are widely accessible among the civilian populace.
A UN helicopter was struck while attempting to evacuate soldiers from Nasir City in Upper Nile State, an incident that tragically resulted in at least 27 fatalities. The UN condemned this act as “utterly abhorrent” and a potential war crime, which poses significant threats to an already tenuous peace process.
The power-sharing agreement between President Kiir and First Vice-President Riek Machar has recently been jeopardized by violent confrontations among their allied factions within the Upper Nile state. The White Army militia, associated with Machar’s Nuer community, has gained control of Nasir city following clashes with government forces. South Sudan became independent from Sudan following a referendum in 2011.
The discussions between Sudan and South Sudan demonstrate an ongoing concern regarding security and stability in South Sudan amidst rising unrest. The targeting of a UN helicopter exacerbates fears about violence and the fragility of the region’s peace process. Both leaderships remain committed to fostering cooperation while addressing significant internal and bilateral challenges, as the stability of South Sudan continues to be at risk.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
