The Troika (USA, UK, and Norwegian) envoys in South Sudan have urged the South Sudan Opposition Movements Alliance (SSOMA) and the government to cease hostilities and return to the negotiating table, SSOMA led by General Thomas Cirillo said in a statement on Monday.
“The troika envoys urged SSOMA and the government of South Sudan to stop violence and allow unhindered humanitarian access to the civilians who are in dire need of assistance,” the statement read. “The troika envoys called upon the parties to resume talks as soon as possible. The SSOMA-LC expressed to the troika envoys concerns over security and movement of its members, in the neighboring countries of South Sudan, who will participate in future peace talks, however.”
According to SSOMA, the meeting discussed the current impasse in the Rome Peace Process under the auspices of the Community Sant’Egidio.
“SSOMA-LC extensively briefed the Troika envoys on issues agreed on the points of divergence with the government regarding negotiations on the Declaration of Principles (DoP). SSOMA also reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to achieving lasting and durable peace through the mediation of the community of Sant’Egidio,” SSOMA’s statement said.
“The SSOMA-LC urged the troika to continue playing an active role in bridging the gaps between the government and SSOMA. Troika envoys were urged to continue engaging with SSOMA-LC in order to make the Rome initiative under auspices of the Community Sant’Egidio a success,” it added.
According to SSOMA, the meeting which was held on 28 May was candid and constructive.