I join others in thanking the briefers for their insightful overviews. Allow me also to extend a very warm welcome to the new Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Mr. Perthes. I look forward to working with you, and you can count on Estonia’s support.
Madam President,
It is commendable, that despite multiple challenges, the Sudan has continued to make progress in its historic transition. Estonia recognizes the many important milestones the Sudan has achieved since the last Council briefing, ranging from governance to human rights to economic reforms. We welcome the announcement by the Sudan of accession to UN human rights instruments – the UN Convention against Torture, and the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance. Since institutions form the backbone of democracy, Estonia encourages the Sudan continue with institution building, as set out in the Constitutional Declaration, especially with the Transitional Legislative Council. We also urge the Sudan to enhance women’s meaningful participation in the transitional decision-making bodies.
Estonia also welcomes the continued efforts made by the Sudanese to implement the Juba Peace Agreement. In particular, the formation of the new transitional Government and the expanded Sovereign Council are important milestones. We further recognize the Government’s latest cooperation with the International Criminal Court, as restoration of justice and accountability remain crucial. However, it is also important to acknowledge the significant challenges that lie ahead related to implementation of the Agreement. Estonia underscores the importance of the inclusion of women in the implementation of the Peace Agreement. Additionally, we call on parties who have not yet joined the Peace Agreement to do so urgently.
The socio-economic situation unfortunately continues to impose significant hardship on the Sudanese people, but we commend the important steps the Transitional Government has taken to put the country on the path towards economic recovery. Estonia welcomes the exchange rate reform, and encourages the transitional Government to continue implementing its critical reform agenda.
The continued reports of intercommunal violence in Darfur are very concerning. We urge the transitional Government to accelerate implementation of its National Strategy for Civilian Protection. We are also concerned about the destruction of a former UNAMID site on 23 February. Extending state authority to all of Darfur will have to remain an important goal.
In all of these efforts that I just mentioned, UNITAMS can be supporting the Sudan. I urge the Sudanese to tap into this resource. In order to have a systematic approach, we encourage the Sudan to articulate the priority areas where they would need help from UNITAMS. I further urge the transitional Government to finalize the Status of Mission Agreement as soon as possible in order to enable effective operation of UNITAMS.
Madam President,
Estonia is concerned about the recent escalation of tensions between the Sudan and Ethiopia over the al Fashqa border area. We urge the leaders of Ethiopia and the Sudan to de-escalate the situation, and work towards a peaceful solution. Finally, I would like to reiterate our deep appreciation to Sudan for offering its generous support to the Ethiopian refugees, who have fled from Tigray.
To conclude, Sudan has made significant progress, but a lot remains to be done. We hope that the good cooperation between the Sudan and UNITAMS will help the country to rise to the challenge so that it can complete its historic transition. International community must spare no effort to support the aspirations of Sudanese people to achieve democracy, peace and prosperity.
