ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 16 (Xinhua) -- African Union (AU) Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security Bankole Adeoye on Sunday called for a permanent ceasefire in Sudan and eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Briefing reporters on the sidelines of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government of the AU, Adeoye said the situation in Sudan is "the worst humanitarian crisis globally," and that the conflict, which began in April 2023, remains "virtually unreported" despite its scale and impact on regional stability.
"Our number one goal is the signing of a permanent, unconditional, inclusive and immediate ceasefire in Sudan. We need peace in Sudan, not only for the region, but for the entire people of our continent," Adeoye told reporters.
He expressed appreciation for the efforts exerted by different stakeholders to end the conflict in Sudan, saying that various mechanisms have been set up to apply diplomatic pressure on the parties to the crisis to bring about a permanent ceasefire.
Adeoye highlighted the urgency of signing a permanent ceasefire to end the protracted conflict and suffering of civilians, as well as to avoid spillover effects on neighboring countries.
Regarding the situation in eastern DRC, the commissioner said the AU-led mediation effort is yielding positive developments toward de-escalating hostilities and restoring peace and security in the country.
"We call upon M23 and all belligerents to end the conflict in eastern DRC, engage in meaningful dialogue and sign a permanent ceasefire," Adeoye said.
He added that the AU is working with the international community based on the principle of silencing the guns immediately and permanently across Africa.
Adeoye also noted that AU leaders, during the assembly, reaffirmed their policy of "zero tolerance" for unconstitutional changes of government. ■