Thank you, Mr. President,

At the outset, let me begin by thanking USG Jean Pierre-Lacroix and Special Envoy for Horn of Africa Parfait Onanga-Anyanga for their respective briefings on developments concerning the UN Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA) and its support to the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism (JBVMM) as well as  progress in the implementation of resolution 2046.

2. During our previous tenure in the Council in 2011, India had been closely involved in the efforts that created UNISFA in June 2011. It is a matter of concern that the status of Abyei continues to remain unsettled. Peaceful resolution of the final status of Abyei, in conformity with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement, remains fundamental to durable peace between both countries.

3. There has been some progress made in the recent months, including the continued rapprochement between Sudan and South Sudan, which we welcome. The role played by South Sudan in the Juba Accords is having a positive impact. The African Union has also continued its mediation efforts and offered support to parties to resume the meeting of the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee. Some of notable positive developments include the signing of a protocol on the resumption of oil production in the Unity and Toma South oil fields in South Sudan and the convening of joint bodies related to the management of the border, including the Joint Political and Security Mechanism.

4. The overall security situation in the Abyei area has also remained relatively calm. Despite their tense relations, the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities have responded to UNISFA’s efforts to resume the community grassroots peace process. We need to be cognizant of the fact that these welcome developments have taken place amidst Covid-19 challenges. We need to encourage both sides to continue efforts in the coming months. These efforts need to focus on the early convening of the Abyei Oversight Committee and promoting inter-community dialogue, which are essential to the peace process in Abyei.

Mr. President,

5. With respect to the security situation, the attacks on UNISFA troops, WFP convoy and increasing violent incidents involving the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities are a matter of concern. The Mission must take adequate measures to ensure the safety of peacekeepers.

6. The humanitarian situation in the Abyei area remains challenging, particularly in the context of Covid-19 pandemic. We appreciate the efforts of UNISFA and humanitarian agencies. UNISFA has carried out tasks related to the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism in a commendable manner, despite operational challenges. We also welcome the innovative technological initiatives to improve the Mission’s performance.

7. Regarding operational issues concerning the mission, early facilitation of  visas for police personnel and agreement on the civilian deputy head of the mission  will positively impact the working of the mission. So is the upgradation of the Anthony airstrip. These are long pending issues and needs to resolved quickly.

8. We have taken note of the lack of consensus in the Secretary General’s “draw-down of UNISFA” report after intensive regional consultations with Sudan, South Sudan and Ethiopia.We concur with the Secretary General’s assessment that in view of a pending consensus on this sensitive issue, a final decision should be deferred for the time being.

9. In conclusion, Mr. President, let me highlight that India has longstanding and mutually beneficial friendly relations with both Sudan and South Sudan. We have contributed to the development of both the countries by means of bilateral assistance and projects in sectors like energy, transport and agriculture. Our capacity building, training and scholarship programs have been deeply appreciated by both countries. We are confident that both countries will successfully resolve all outstanding issues and continue to emerge stronger as major development success stories in Africa.  India, as a long-standing partner, will continue to support Juba and Khartoum in this journey.

I thank you.

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