Norway concerned about crisis in South Sudan

OSLO, Norway, December 18, 2013  “The violent clashes in South Sudan in recent days give serious cause for concern. We urge all parties to refrain from the use of violence and to help find a political solution to the conflict,” said Foreign Minister Børge Brende.

Norway Minister of Foreign Affairs Børge Brende

The situation in South Sudan is very tense and it is difficult to get a clear picture of what is happening. The UN reports that 10 000 people have sought shelter at the two UN mission facilities in Juba.

“President Salva Kiir, as commander-in-chief of the army, must order all troops to stop fighting at once, and put the safety of the people first,” Foreign Minister Brende said.

Norway has been a key supporter of South Sudan since the peace agreement in 2005 and South Sudan’s subsequent independence in 2011. The fighting that erupted in Juba on the evening of 16 December comes on the heels a period of increasing political tension.

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