The international community on Sunday expressed its deep concerns over the continuing spread of fighting, and risk of inter-communal violence escalating into mass atrocities, besides the dire humanitarian situation in South Sudan.

In a joint statement issued following consultative meetings on South Sudan on the sidelines of the AU summit in Addis Ababa, the African Union (AU), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the United Nations (UN), called for an immediate cessation of hostilities.

The three organizations urged the parties to ensure inclusivity of the political process, both in the proposed National Dialogue and in the implementation of the peace agreement.

"The AU, IGAD and UN reaffirmed their continued and collective commitment in the search for lasting peace, security and stability in the country," reads part of the joint statement.

The meeting, chaired by Ethiopian Prime Minister and Chairperson of IGAD Hailemariam Desalegn, was also attended by Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma, Chairperson of the AU Commission, and Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations.

Also in attendance, were the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Ethiopia, the Executive Secretary of IGAD, the AU Commissioner for Peace and Security, and other senior officials of the three organizations.

The international community further stated that there can only be a political solution to the conflict, within the framework of the 2015 peace agreement.

The AU, IGAD and UN commended the important work performed by the JMEC Chairperson and encouraged the AU High Representative for South Sudan to undertake active shuttle diplomacy towards ensuring the inclusivity of the National Dialogue and the peace  implementation, in close consultation with the JMEC Chairperson, the UN and IGAD.

The AU, IGAD and the UN reaffirmed their commitment and determination to further enhance their cooperation in support of the South Sudan peace process.

File photo: South Sudan's President Kiir attends urgent session for the Summit of the IGAD on South Sudan in 2015 (Credit: CGTN)