U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE

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Statement by Sean McCormack, Spokesman
Attacks in North Darfur/DPA Anniversary

We condemn the aerial bombings by the Sudanese Armed Forces of civilian targets in North Darfur, including the reported May 4 attack on a primary school and marketplace which took the lives of several civilians.  We call on the Government of Sudan and all armed groups to adhere to their existing ceasefire commitments, end hostilities, and pursue a peaceful resolution of the conflict. 

Today, on the second anniversary of the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement, we are reminded that peace remains elusive and civilians continue to be victims of violence and serious human rights abuses.  Humanitarian access is at its lowest point in over three years.  We call on all parties to cooperate and participate fully in the African Union-United Nations led process, and call on the UN and AU to quickly name a full-time joint mediator.  We also call for all parties to protect humanitarian workers, convoys, and to facilitate full humanitarian access to all peoples in need.

We remain committed to the full implementation of the DPA and the pursuit of a prosperous, peaceful, and democratic Sudan.

 

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