UNSC briefing/consultations on United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA)

[27 October 2022; 1000 hrs EDT/1930 hrs IST]

INDIA STATEMENT

At the outset, let me thank ASG Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee and Special Envoy for Horn of Africa, Ms. Hannah Tetteh 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 2609 (2021).

2.    Peaceful resolution of the final status of Abyei, in conformity with the Comprehensive Peace Agreement of 2005, remains fundamental to durable peace, stability and development in the region. We believe that the developments during the reporting period provide hope for both Sudan and South Sudan to move forward on the political settlement. 

3.    The convening of the Joint Peace and Security Mechanism (JPSM) meeting, which was long overdue, and opening of border crossing corridors are noteworthy developments. We believe that regular meetings of the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee is important for effective administration and to address security challenges in Abyei.

4.    The Entebbe conference has also brought together the Ngok Dinka and the Misseriya communities. The communities have provided list of pending matters that could be considered by JPSM in its future meetings. There is also a positive indication towards convening of the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee meeting in the coming months. The security situation has remained largely calm, though violent incidents continued. We note with concern the armed attacks and freedom of movement violations against UNISFA troops. It is important that these issues including operationalization of Athony airstrip and visas for formed police units are addressed by Sudan and South Sudan earnestly. We also call for establishment of Abyei Police Service.

5.    Despite these operational challenges, UNISFA has continued to support and enhance the rule of law in Abyei area, through involvement of Community Protection Committees and Joint Protection Committee. UNISFA has also supported the communities through quick impact projects. The situation in the Joint Border Verification Monitoring Mechanism area has remained calm. We hope it will be re-operationalized in sector 1 in the coming days. We believe sensitization of the local populations will play an important role in resumption of Joint Border Verification Monitoring Mechanism. 

6.    We also welcome the progress made in the ongoing process of reconfiguration of UNISFA’s Force. The deployment of the Indian contingent of 570 peacekeepers to UNISFA is presently underway, reflecting India’s commitment towards peace, stability and development of Abyei.

7.    In conclusion, Mr. President, let me highlight that India has longstanding and friendly relations with both Sudan and South Sudan. We are confident that both countries will successfully resolve all outstanding issues and continue to emerge stronger. On our part, we will continue to  support Juba and Khartoum in peaceful resolution of the status of Abyei.

I thank you. 

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