Today's Edition
NEW YORK CITY (ALETIHAD) - Sarah Al Awadhi, Second Secretary of the Permanent Mission of the UAE to the United Nations (UN), delivered the UAE statement at the UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting on the situation in Sudan, condemning all attacks targeting peacekeepers and those preventing humanitarian access to reach those most in need.
She noted that the region is witnessing an escalation that “threatens to complicate the efforts toward achieving tangible progress for the resolution of the final status of Abyei and the border issues”.
Continuing her address, Al Awadhi shared the three main points the UAE wanted to discuss during the Council meeting, namely enabling the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JBVMM) to continue its work; coupling efforts to reduce tensions between communities with improving livelihoods for the long-term security of Abyei; and ensuring that the UN continues to play its vital role in coordinating peace efforts and humanitarian activities in the Abyei Area.
Discussing the first point, she explained that the outbreak of violence in Sudan and the continued security and political tensions in South Sudan necessitate the continuation of JBVMM’s work. This includes protecting its staff from the security gaps along the border area.
“We also see the importance of continued coordination of work and information-sharing between UNISFA, UNITAMS and UNMISS to enhance efforts in addressing issues of common concern, including border security and transhumance issues,” Al Awadhi said, stressing that it is important to safeguard the progress already made in the area and resume dialogue.
Regarding the second point, she noted that recent efforts have resulted in reduced levels of violence and clashes between communities. However, the cycle of violence still continues, she added. “In this context, the UAE condemns the killings of civilians as well as sexual and gender-based violence,” Al Awadhi said, adding that these challenges require continued efforts to strengthen the capacity of “community protection committees” and “joint protection committees” to identify early warning signs.
“Furthermore, in line with resolution 2686 (2023), we encourage the mission to continue to promote dialogue and peaceful coexistence among communities by engaging with traditional leaders, local authorities, youth and women to defuse tensions, address intolerance and mobilise support for peace,” the Second Secretary underlined.
The third point discussed the importance of the UN continuing its “vital role” in coordinating peace efforts and humanitarian activities in the Abyei Area.
“In this context, the UAE condemns all attacks targeting peacekeepers and those preventing humanitarian access to reach those most in need. We also encourage UNISFA to continue to implement quick-impact projects to support communities throughout the area,” Al Awadhi said.
“The UAE remains committed to supporting all peace and stability efforts for the Abyei Area,” she added.
