The European Union has added its voice to the growing international pressure on the parties to the peace agreement in South Sudan to implement the deal as stipulated.
In a joint statement released on Monday and seen by Radio Tamazuj, the representations of the EU, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom said they support the peace process which will achieve sustainable peace and stability in South Sudan.
The EU noted that much remains unimplemented as the deadline for the pre-transitional period draws near, but urged the parties to engage in political dialogue to unlock the stalemate on outstanding issues especially the number of states and their boundaries.
“We, therefore, join the UN Security Council and the African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) in urging the signatories to make continued and accelerated efforts in this regard. In particular, we echo the African Union PSC Communiqué of 15th October in encouraging the Government to expeditiously disburse the remaining funds pledged in May 2019 for the implementation of the R-ARCSS,” the statement read in part.
The European Union further encouraged more meetings between President Salva Kiir and SPLM-IO Chairman Dr. Riek Machar, including other signatories to resolve outstanding issues.
“We look forward to the Transitional Period which will move the country towards elections and also serve as a time for reform, reconciliation and healing. We look forward to engaging with the R-TGoNU on the implementation of all chapters of the peace agreement,” the EU said while stressing the importance of inclusivity in the unity government.