Speech

Delivering lasting change for the people of Sudan

UK remarks at virtual UNGA High-Level Side Event on Sudan, delivered by Lord Ahmad of Wimbledon, Minister for South Asia, the United Nations and the Commonwealth

Lord A

Thank you, Prime Minister Hamdok, for your dedication to leadership during this difficult but important transition to democracy.

I congratulate your Government on the tremendous progress made, particularly on economic reforms and progress under the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries Initiative.

This Sunday marks the first anniversary of the Juba Peace Agreement – a landmark step towards security and justice for the people of Sudan.

Progress on the Agreement, however, has been slower than hoped.

We urge the signatories to establish the Peace Commission and security arrangements.

We also call for the swift establishment of the Monitoring and Evaluation Mechanism.

This will provide the transparent assessment that international partners need to support the implementation of the peace agreement.

The formation of the Transitional Legislative Council is another vital step to be taken towards a more inclusive, democratic Sudan.

Secretary-General, Foreign Minister Søreide (Sir-AY-da), there has been significant progress since 2019, but Sudan’s journey is far from over.

I can assure you, and the people of Sudan, that the UK remains steadfast in its support for the civilian-led transition.

We condemn any attempt to destabilise or undermine this important process for Sudan’s peace and future prosperity.

Sudan’s government and the international community must play their parts in ensuring its success.

We look forward to continuing to support Prime Minister Hamdok and his government to deliver lasting change for the people of Sudan.

Published 30 September 2021