IGAD , Peaceful and Respectful dialogue Remains the Cornerstone of Our Approach
Citizens/ Follow- ups
The IGAD Executive Secretary, H.E. Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu
As we convene in unity and solidarity in support of our IGAD family members in the Republic of Sudan, the challenges they are facing demand our collective wisdom, commitment, and concerted efforts.
Gebeyehu, said Today at the 41st Extraordinary Assembly of IGAD Heads of State and Government “Our region stands at a critical juncture, with the ongoing conflict in Sudan casting a shadow over our aspirations of a peaceful and prosperous Greater Horn of Africa”.
He said “I wish to draw your attention, with cautious optimism to the recent partial agreement reached during the Jeddah talks, which made a significant step forward in settling the issue of humanitarian access “.
Pointing out that agreement, while commendable, now requires your leadership, our urgent attention and effective implementation to alleviate the immense suffering endured by the Sudanese people.
Our fellow citizens in the Republic of Sudan continue bearing the brunt of this protracted conflict, and it is our moral duty to expedite the implementation of the partial resolutions of the Jeddah agreement which has been co-facilitated by IGAD under your leadreship, and our partners, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the USA.
The agreement on humanitarian access is a lifeline for urgently needed assistance to reach those in desperate need, and we must ensure that the promises made are translated into tangible relief on the ground.
Dr. Workneh Gebeyehu asserted that IGAD is committed to fostering peace and stability under the leadership of our Chair and yourselves,” I appeal to all Your Excellencies to mobilise full political and diplomatic support, regionally, continentally and globally for IGAD as your organisation not only to assert ourselves as peace-makers in our region overall, but also to responsibly and specifically discharge our critical role in delivering a peaceful resolution to the hostilities in Sudan “.
Adding that peaceful and respectful dialogue remains the cornerstone of our approach, and it is through sustained efforts in this direction that we can pave the way for lasting peace.
We must insist on the immediate establishment of a ceasefire agreement, silencing the guns that have wreaked havoc on the lives of innocent civilians, our brothers and Sisters in the Republic of Sudan, he said .
The IGAD Executive Secretary asserted that the IGAD family must stand united in its determination to bring about a cessation of hostilities, allowing for the space and conditions necessary for a comprehensive and inclusive dialogue.
Only through dialogue can we address the root causes of the conflict, build trust among the parties involved, and chart a course towards a sustainable peace that respects the dignity and rights of all Sudanese people , he concluded .