Norway’s Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, has urged an immediate end to hostilities in South Sudan, citing escalating tensions that threaten regional stability and civilian safety. He pointed to the humanitarian crisis facing millions and emphasized the need for dialogue and international support to avert further conflict.
Norway’s Foreign Minister, Espen Barth Eide, emphasized the urgent need to de-escalate tensions in South Sudan, highlighting that the ongoing crisis poses threats to regional stability and the well-being of civilians. His statement expressed profound concern regarding the escalating political and ethnic divisions within the nation, which could lead to a resurgence of full-scale conflict.
Minister Eide remarked, “The escalating tensions in South Sudan are deeply worrying. The parties involved must immediately cease hostilities and engage in dialogue to prevent further violence and suffering.”
Since South Sudan achieved independence from Sudan in 2011, it has been marred by internal strife, notably after a power struggle erupted into civil war in 2013 between President Salva Kiir and former Deputy Riek Machar. Although a peace agreement was signed in 2018, sporadic violence and instability continue to plague the region, with recent clashes in Nasir, Upper Nile State, raising fears of renewed widespread fighting.
Eide emphasized the importance of both regional and international support in stabilizing South Sudan. He stated, “Norway stands ready to assist in facilitating dialogue and promoting peace. The international community must work together to ensure that South Sudan does not slide back into chaos.”
Additionally, the humanitarian implications of the ongoing crisis were underscored, with millions of South Sudanese displaced and experiencing severe food insecurity. Eide urged that all parties must prioritize the protection of civilians and ensure unrestricted access for humanitarian assistance, asserting, “The people of South Sudan have endured unimaginable suffering. It is imperative that all parties prioritize the protection of civilians and allow unhindered access for humanitarian aid.”
Having played a pivotal role in South Sudan’s peace process, Norway previously brokered the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement which laid the foundation for the nation’s independence.
In summary, Norway’s Foreign Minister has called for immediate dialogue and de-escalation of tensions in South Sudan due to the urgent threats to regional stability and civilian lives. The ongoing humanitarian crisis requires collective international assistance to prevent a return to widespread violence. Norway’s historical involvement in South Sudan’s peace efforts underscores the importance of sustained support for stabilization initiatives.
Original Source: www.radiotamazuj.org
