Norway concerned about situation between Sudan and South Sudan

OSLO, Norway, April 26, 2012/African Press Organization (APO)/ -- Norway concerned about situation between Sudan and South Sudan

“We are pleased to note that South Sudan has now withdrawn its armed forces from the disputed Heglig area. However, we see that Sudan has stepped up its bombing of South Sudan's territory. We call for an immediate halt to the hostilities,” said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Norway urges both parties to refrain from statements and actions that could worsen the situation.

“The current tense situation between Sudan and South Sudan risks jeopardising the progress made by the parties since the Comprehensive Peace Agreement was signed in 2005,” said Mr Støre.

“Norway will continue to actively promote a peaceful solution to the conflict, for example by supporting the work of the African Union High Level Implementation Panel,” said Minister of International Development Heikki Holmås.

In order to secure a stable security situation it is essential that the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mission is established without delay.

“I urge both countries once again to remove all obstacles to the establishment of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mission and call on the parties to honour their commitment to establish the mission immediately,” said Mr Støre.

Norway will continue to work closely with its international partners and the two countries to find a solution to the situation.

“The outstanding issues cannot be resolved through military action. It is vital that President of Sudan Omar al-Bashir and President of South Sudan Salva Kiir return to the negotiating table as soon as possible,” said Mr Holmås.