FCO Minister statement on violence in Blue Nile, Sudan Kordofan
Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham: "I call on the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Blue Nile immediately to halt all fighting"
Foreign Office Minister for Africa, Henry Bellingham, said:
“I am very concerned by reports of violence in Blue Nile State. I condemn any action that puts civilians at risk of harm, in particular the reported aerial bombardments.”
“I call on the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Blue Nile immediately to halt all fighting, which will further damage the prospect of finding long-term solutions to the social and political problems that exist both in Blue Nile and in Southern Kordofan.”
“I am also very disappointed that, despite the announcement by President Bashir on 23 August of a ceasefire in Southern Kordofan, violence there continues. It is urgent that the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (North) agree on a process of dialogue to address root causes of conflict in both Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile. Peaceful negotiation is the only way to create the long term stability and development the people in both states deserve.”