Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Deputy Permanent Representative to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on UNISFA and Sudan/South Sudan.
I will make three points.
First, we underscore the importance of UNISFA's work in maintaining peace in a fragile region.
We note that despite ongoing tensions, the SG's report states that there have been no intercommunal clashes since April. This signals an improvement given the alarming number of serious security incidents reported earlier this year.
We must ensure this positive trend continues. That means providing the necessary support for UNISFA so that it can fulfil its mandate.
It is important that the Government of South Sudan and the Sudanese authorities remove obstacles to UNISFA's operations.
We call on the Sudanese authorities urgently to issue visas for UN civilian and police personnel to help UNISFA address increasing crime-related threats in Abyei.
We also re-iterate our calls on the leaders of South Sudan to withdraw the People's Defence Forces from Abyei. These forces compromise Abyei's demilitarised status and violate the 2011 Status of Forces Agreement.
Second, we note with regret the impact of the Sudan conflict on the humanitarian and security situation in Abyei. Around 24,000 refugees and returnees have arrived in Abyei since the outbreak of the conflict.
We have also seen in the SG's report credible evidence of arms proliferation which compromises the security of Abyei.
We urge the parties to open the Athony airstrip to facilitate humanitarian access and to enable UNISFA's operations.
Third, we remain concerned by the lack of progress on a political solution for Abyei. Sudan and South Sudan must re-engage in dialogue towards the resolution of Abyei's political status.
In conclusion, the UK looks forward to engaging constructively on the upcoming mandate renewal for UNISFA. The deteriorating conflict in Sudan and the challenges in South Sudan make the work of the mission more important than ever.
