Kiir urges UN summit to lift arms embargo over peace obstruction

UNITED NATIONS, SEPTEMBER 21, 2023 (SUDANS POST) – South Sudan President Salva Kiir on Thursday called on the United Nations to end the arms embargo it imposed on in 2018, saying the measure meant to decrease armed violence obstructs peace implementation.

Kiir made the call during his address to the 78^th UN General Assembly in New York, United States, where he also emphasized his government’s commitment to peace.

“As we move in this direction, we call upon the United Nations to lift the arms embargo imposed on us to aid peace implementation and to secure the elections,” Kiir said.

“The arms embargo has impeded the implementation of security arrangements because effective deployment of the unified forces which we have graduated cannot happen without arms,” he added.

Kiir also spoke about the challenges that South Sudan has faced since its independence in 2011, including the ongoing civil war.

He said that his government is committed to the implementation of the revitalized peace agreement he signed with opposition groups to end a deadly civil war in September 2018.

“We have turned the corner with the signing of the Revitalized Peace Agreement in 2018,” Kiir said. “

“Now we are determined to build on the commitments of our revitalized or revised National Development Strategy 2021 to 2024 to consolidate peace and stabilize the economy,” he added.

Kiir also appealed to the international community for support in dealing with the humanitarian crisis caused by the influx of Sudanese refugees into South Sudan.

“This influx has overwhelmed our border communities and created a humanitarian crisis,” Kiir said.

“I’m appealing to the international community to avail resources to help refugees and displaced persons who crossed into South Sudan,” he added.

In closing, Kiir reaffirmed South Sudan’s commitment to peace and partnership with the international community.

“South Sudan stands before this esteemed assembly as a resolute partner in the collective pursuits of a better future for all,” Kiir said.

“I extend our hand of friendship to fellow member states, international organizations and civil society,” he added.