Foreign Minister condemns latest cross-border violence between Sudan and South Sudan
Foreign Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham: "It is imperative for both Governments to come together and resolve their differences through constructive dialogue and avoid inflammatory rhetoric."
Speaking today the Minister for Africa said:
“I condemn the latest aerial bombardments by Sudanese air forces against targets in Unity State, South Sudan, which have resulted in civilian casualties and deaths. This action can only serve to heighten tensions at an already volatile stage. I join international partners in calling for an immediate halt to these hostilities.
“As I have made clear recently, it is imperative for both Governments to come together and resolve their differences through constructive dialogue and avoid inflammatory rhetoric. President Bashir, President Kiir and their Governments must show a renewed commitment to their engagement with the African Union High Level Implementation Panel, and to reaching early agreements on borders and security, including the establishment of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism.
“We remain fully committed to supporting the African Union High Level Implementation Panel in its efforts to resolve the situation, including through any outcomes of the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting which is taking place today in Addis Ababa”