By TROIKA
The following statement was released by the Governments of the United States of America, Norway, and the United Kingdom.
The Department of State hosted Wednesday and Thursday, June 21-22, Special Envoys from Norway and the United Kingdom covering Sudan and South Sudan to discuss as members of the Troika the ongoing conflict in Sudan, and the need for coordinated international pressure to stop the fighting, protect civilians, and ensure unhindered humanitarian access.
Troika envoys condemned the widespread human rights violations, conflict related sexual violence, and targeted ethnic violence occurring in areas of Darfur, mostly attributed to soldiers of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and allied militias, and reiterated calls for the RSF and Sudanese Armed Forces to control their forces, ensure respect for human rights, and hold accountable those responsible for attacks against civilians.
The envoys expressed deep concern that increased fighting in Darfur, Kordofan, and other periphery areas risked further broadening the conflict and urged leaders of armed movements inside Sudan to stay out of the fight and support peace and a negotiated end to the conflict. They reiterated support for the Sudanese people’s demands for freedom, peace, and justice, and the establishment of a democratic, civilian government that represents the full diversity of the Sudanese people.
Troika members also discussed South Sudan and the transitional government’s lack of progress toward fulfilling its peace agreement. They agreed on the urgent need for the transitional government to meet its commitments without delay. These include taking all steps necessary to complete the deployment of the Necessary Unified Forces, as well as preparation for free, fair, and peaceful elections. Along with the State Department’s Sanction Coordinator, they discussed the transitional government’s failure to manage the country’s oil revenue transparently with companies and associations operating in or providing services to companies in South Sudan’s oil sector.
