I join others in thanking Under-Secretary-General Atul Khare for the comprehensive briefing.
At the outset, allow me to commend everyone involved who made it possible to wrap-up UNAMID at a historic pace. This was no easy endeavour, and we appreciate the effort it took. Estonia also welcomes Sudan’s cooperation with both the United Nations and the African Union during UNAMID’s drawdown.
Now it is important to ensure that the liquidation process goes according to plan. We call on the Government of Sudan and other relevant stakeholders, including the Juba Peace Agreement signatories, and other armed opposition movements, to cooperate fully with the United Nations and the African Union during UNAMID’s liquidation.
Mr. President,
The pursuit of peace, justice and civilian protection in Darfur remains relevant also after the closure of UNAMID. This is why the implementation of the Juba Peace Agreement cannot be over-emphasized. We also urge the government of Sudan to take extra measures to ensure that protection of civilians is provided for all people in Darfur, especially for the populations who are more vulnerable, including women, children, and the internally displaced. We call on Sudan to cooperate closely with UNITAMS to help build up the necessary capacities for civilian protection, and to consolidate peacebuilding in Darfur more broadly.
Peace in Darfur is also critical for Sudan’s historic transition. On this note, allow me to emphasize that Estonia remains firmly committed to supporting Sudan’s democratic transition to a fully legitimate and inclusive civilian government that would ensure peace, freedom, and justice for all Sudanese people.
Finally, I would like to thank all personnel of UNAMID for their sacrifice and efforts in helping to leave Darfur in a better condition than they found it in. UNAMID will be certainly remembered for its invaluable contributions to peace efforts in Darfur.
Thank you.