• Commission optimist parties will form transitional gov’t in South Sudan before deadline
ADDIS ABABA-Libya and the Sahel countries continue to be at the heart of Africa’s security challenges, said African Union Peace and Security Commission while expressing optimism over situation in South Sudan.
This came as African Union Peace and Security Commissioner Ambassador Smail Chergui spoke to journalists on the side-line of the 33rd AU Ordinary Summit after presenting a report on the peace and security situation on the continent.
He came up with a report highlighting the advancement and achievements that have been so far realized in terms of the operationalization of African peace and security architecture. The continent faces major challenges, the situation in Libya and the Sahel. The two crises have been the agenda of the UN Security Council, said the Commissioner.
“We want the cessation of hostility be fully respected and arms embargo on the Libya be respected strictly so that African Union will move its mission to Tripoli,” he said adding “we also want immediate cessation of all external interventions and interferences in Libyan affairs.The AU welcomes Berlin outcome and will work for its implementation.”
With regard to Sahel region, the Commissioner described the situation in Sahel as grave and as having domino effect in other areas. The area has been destroyed and opened the door for peace. Arms have been smuggled from Libya to the Sahel. Terrorists groups are not only showing resilience bit also getting new equipment and techniques to attack security forces, according to his report.
“This situation worries us most and we urge the AU and international community act accordingly. And, the issue of Sahel should not be left alone”. The Commissioner said additional 10 million USD contribution has been announced from member countries for the peace fund in addition to regular contribution. Priority should be given to working on the prevention of conflict and enhancing investment and governance.
The Summit has stressed that combating terrorism in the Sahel has great importance for the entire continent’s peace and stability. Building the capacity of security forces in the Sahel countries is proposed by the Summit to restore peace.
Speaking of South Sudan, Chergui stated the situation in South Sudan is important as 12 days remain before the deadline for the parties to resolve differences and form transitional government according to 100 extensions that was granted to them.
The Ethiopian Herald February 12/2020
BY DESTA GEBREHIWOT
