China's ambassador to the UN, Sun Lei, has urged Sudan and South Sudan to resolve their dispute over Abyei through dialogue. Speaking at a United Nations Security Council meeting on Thursday, November 5, Sun called on the two countries to build on recent progress in their joint political and security mechanisms and work towards resolving Abyei's final status. This comes amid tensions over South Sudan's plans to include the disputed territory in its December 2026 general elections.
The move by South Sudan has been rejected by Sudan as a violation of agreements between the two countries. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the plan could significantly increase political tensions as the elections approach. Sudan's representative, Al-Harith Idriss Al-Harith Mohamed, said the decision undermined existing agreements. In contrast, South Sudan's representative, Sabino Edward Nyawella Amaikwey, argued that the political rights of the Ngok Dinka, particularly the nine chiefdoms, cannot be disregarded while Abyei's final status remained unresolved.
Sun welcomed the resumption of regular meetings of the joint political and security mechanisms between Sudan and South Sudan, saying they had produced several positive outcomes. He emphasized that the international community should respect the sovereignty and leading role of Sudan and South Sudan, take into account the challenges facing both countries, and avoid imposing solutions or rushing the political process. This approach, according to Sun, is crucial for achieving a lasting settlement of the Abyei dispute.
China has condemned the recent drone attack on Amiet market in Abyei that caused heavy civilian casualties. Sun expressed condolences to the victims' families and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He urged all parties to end violence and respect international humanitarian law. The implementation of the 2011 temporary arrangements governing Abyei, including maintaining its demilitarized and weapons-free status, was also emphasized.
Sun called for the withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) and other armed groups from Abyei and an end to their interference in existing governance arrangements. He further encouraged dialogue and cooperation between the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities to build trust and promote peaceful coexistence. This, according to Sun, is essential for addressing the humanitarian concerns in the area.
Delays in resolving Abyei's political status have hindered development and weakened the area's economic capacity, according to Sun. He called on UN country teams in Sudan and South Sudan to advance the Abyei Joint Programme in coordination with the two governments and UNISFA. The focus areas include refugee settlement, poverty reduction, disaster prevention, education, and healthcare. International partners are also urged to provide more resources to humanitarian and development organizations operating in the area.
Sun welcomed Sudan's approval for the deployment of a formed police unit under the UN Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) and its commitment to facilitating visas and other arrangements. He commended South Sudan for its continued support for the mission. As the Security Council considers renewing UNISFA's mandate, China supports extending the mission's authorization to enable it to continue contributing to peace and stability in Abyei.
Key points
- China urges Sudan and South Sudan to resolve the Abyei dispute through dialogue.
- The dispute is fueled by South Sudan's plan to include Abyei in its December 2026 general elections.
- China condemns the recent drone attack on Amiet market in Abyei and calls for respect for international humanitarian law.
