UNSC briefing on UN Interim Security Force in Abyei (UNISFA)

[Wednesday, 27 October 2021]

INDIA STATEMENT

By

Mr. A. Amarnath

Counsellor

Thank you, Mr. President,

At the outset, let me thank USG Jean Pierre-Lacroix and Special Envoy for Horn of Africa, Mr. 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) and progress in the implementation of Resolution 2575 (2021).

2. We also convey our sincere condolences to the family of the peacekeeper from Ethiopia who lost his life on 14 September 2021 while serving in UNISFA in the Gok Machar area. Safety and security of UN Peacekeepers needs to be accorded top priority. It is deeply concerning that request for an urgent MEDVAC was refused, which could have saved the life of the UN peacekeeper. We also express concern over recent developments in Gok Machar area, including actions that threaten the safety and security of peacekeepers.

3. We welcome the continued rapprochement towards peace and trust building between Sudan and South Sudan in recent months, including the convening of joint bodies related to the management of the border and the Joint Political and Security Mechanism. The African Union has also continued its mediation efforts and offered support to parties to resume the meeting of the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee, which has not taken place since 2017. Peaceful resolution of the final status of Abyei, in conformity with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2011, remains fundamental in our view to durable peace, stability and development in the region. However, the ongoing developments of concern in Sudan, can impact the mandate implementation of UNISFA.

4. While the overall security situation has remained calm, the continuing violent incidents involving the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities are a matter of concern. In this regard, we commend UNISFA’s efforts, in holding the meetings between the two communities.  We need to be cognizant of the fact that these welcome developments have taken place amidst the prevailing 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.

5. 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. For the Mission’s sustenance and ability to fulfill its mandate, all efforts need to be made for better coordination with the host governments.

6. Regarding operational issues concerning the mission, we call on both Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities to facilitate early resolution of long pending issues such as visas for police personnel, reaching an agreement on the civilian deputy head of the mission and operationalization of the Athony airstrip. We once again underscore the importance of adhering to the SOFA (Status of Forces Agreement) by the South Sudan authorities.

7. 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 between the three countries, a final decision should be deferred for the time being.

8. 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.  Last week, India’s Minister of State for External Affairs Shri V. Muraleedharan paid an official visit to Khartoum and Juba. During the visit our Minister held meetings with the political leadership and reviewed the state of our bilateral relations and discussed topics of mutual interest. India, as a long-standing partner, will continue to support Juba and Khartoum in their journey towards peace and development. I thank you Mr. President.