Statement by EU High Representative Catherine Ashton on South Sudan

EU News 1/2014

140102/01
Brussels, 2 January 2014

The High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy and Vice President of the Commission, issued the following statement today:

"I welcome the fact that the parties to the conflict in South Sudan intend to meet in Addis Ababa and I encourage them to initiate talks immediately under the auspices of IGAD. An immediate ceasefire with effective monitoring established as quickly as possible is essential to spare the people of South Sudan any further suffering.

I also appeal to the parties to give full access to all people in the areas under their control to humanitarian workers and observers. I have noted disturbing reports of human rights abuse.

All parties need to be aware that any perpetrators of systematic or targeted abuses of human rights will be held accountable for their actions. In particular the protection of all civilians must be respected."

Source and additional information:
http://eeas.europa.eu/statements/docs/2013/140102_01_en.pdf

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