I would first like to thank the special representative of the Secretary General, Mr. Nicholas Haysom, as well as Ms. Lorna for their interventions.
Mr President,
I will emphasize three points.
First, France regrets that the elections were not held as planned. We therefore call on the South Sudanese authorities to demonstrate responsibility and create the necessary conditions to enable, through dialogue, the holding of peaceful, transparent and inclusive elections as soon as possible. This is the best way to preserve the main achievements of the 2018 agreement, namely the end of the civil war and the return of peace.
France recalls the importance of involving all of civil society in dialogue efforts, in the preparation and holding of free, inclusive and transparent elections. France calls for promoting the full, equal and meaningful participation of women in these processes.
Mr President,
Secondly, France encourages South Sudan to continue its cooperation with UNMISS, which plays an essential stabilizing role in the country. This cooperation has improved in recent years, which we welcome and which must be preserved. UNMISS must be able to continue to implement its full mandate. It is essential that all parties keep their commitments, within the framework of the status of forces agreement, and work together.
France will continue to support the efforts of the United Nations in South Sudan and in this regard welcomes the action of Nicholas Haysom, present among us today.
Finally, third point, France is concerned by the consequences of the conflict in Sudan on South Sudan. The influx of returnees from Sudan and Sudanese refugees adds to an already difficult humanitarian situation and fragile economy. We call on the South Sudanese authorities to do everything possible to facilitate the delivery of the international humanitarian response. As such, we support the action of humanitarian organizations providing assistance to displaced populations and host communities, in particular the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.
Mr President,
France calls on the parties to the conflict in Sudan to conclude a ceasefire and engage in an inclusive dialogue with a view to restoring lasting peace. The security and future of the Sudanese populations, but also those of South Sudan and other countries in the region, are at stake.
Thank you.
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