May 5, 2006
No. 48
Foreign Affairs Minister Peter MacKay today applauded the Government of Sudan and
members of the Sudan Liberation Movement (SLM) represented by Minni Arkou Minawi
for signing the Darfur Peace Agreement in Abuja, Nigeria, at the peace talks led by the
African Union (AU). He also welcomed the decision by a substantial number of
members of the SLM/Abdul Wahid negotiating team to abide by the terms of the
agreement, even though the movement itself has not yet signed.
“Canada is encouraged by the signing of the Darfur Peace Agreement as an essential
step toward a lasting peace for the people of Darfur. This agreement marks the
successful conclusion of a very complex process,” said Minister MacKay.
“Reaching an agreement is only the first step. Parties must now work toward ensuring
both the protection of civilians and access for humanitarian workers in the region. It is
crucial that all people of Darfur support this agreement. Implementation and
reconciliation must follow quickly and Canada, along with our international partners, will
be there to support an end to the violence.”
“Canada is proud to have played a central diplomatic role in this process, in particular
through the important work of Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Canada
to the United Nations in New York Allan Rock and High Commissioner to Nigeria David
Angell and their officials in Abuja,” said Minister MacKay. “Canada worked closely with
the AU, the EU, the U.K. and the U.S. in brokering an agreement during the final days
of these negotiations. These and other international partners were actively engaged
throughout the two-year process.”
Since September 2004, Canada has contributed a total of $218 million in support of
diplomatic, humanitarian and African Union-led efforts to end the violence and bring
peace to the people of Darfur. Canada remains a top contributor to the African Union
Mission in Sudan, having provided 25 helicopters, two aircraft, 105 armoured personnel
carriers and related equipment, as well as civilian police and military expertise.
Further information on Canada’s efforts to address the conflict in Sudan can be found
on Foreign Affairs Canada’s website at
http://www.international.gc.ca/canadasudan/menu-en.asp.
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