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Minister for Africa welcomes announcement of a two week ceasefire in Southern Kordofan

Minister for Africa Henry Bellingham has welcomed President Bashir's announcement of a two week ceasefire in Southern Kordofan state and called on the Sudan People's Liberation Movement to follow suit.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government

Speaking today the Minister for Africa said:

“I welcome the announcement from President Bashir of Sudan of a two week unilateral ceasefire in Southern Kordofan state. We have repeatedly voiced our strong concerns regarding the ongoing violent conflict in Southern Kordofan, and see this ceasefire as a positive move towards a lasting solution.

“I now call on the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement (Northern Sector) to follow suit, and abide by the ceasefire. I urge both parties to allow immediate humanitarian access to the area, and to negotiate in earnest for a lasting settlement and peace in Southern Kordofan.”

Published 24 August 2011