S/PV.10034 Security Council

In accordance with rule 37 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the representatives of South Sudan and the Sudan to participate in this meeting. In accordance with rule 39 of the Council’s provisional rules of procedure, I invite the following briefers to participate in this meeting: Ms. Martha Ama Akyaa Pobee, Assistant Secretary-General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations; and Mr. Guang Cong, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa. The Security Council will now begin its consideration of the item on its agenda. I wish to draw the attention of Council members to document S/2025/649, which contains the report of the Secretary-General on the situation in Abyei. I now give the floor to Ms. Pobee. Ms. Pobee: I would like to express my gratitude for the opportunity to brief the Council on the situation concerning the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) and Abyei, alongside the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa. The political process between the Sudan and South Sudan on Abyei and border issues remains stalled, as it has been since the outbreak of the Sudan conflict in April 2023. Nonetheless, in May, both parties indicated to the UNISFA strategic review team their openness to resuming contact on Abyei, with United Nations and African Union support. Last month, following a visit by the South Sudanese Minister for Foreign Affairs to Port Sudan, the two countries announced their intention to reactivate cooperation agreements focusing on security and the economy. Since then, South Sudan has reconstituted a committee to pursue dialogue on Abyei. Special Envoy Cong will provide you with an additional update on matters related to the political process and other regional issues. These movements towards dialogue are welcome developments. However, considerable challenges remain in achieving progress on the final status of Abyei. These include the dynamics related to the ongoing war in the Sudan and the political uncertainty in South Sudan. I also urge both South Sudan and the Sudan to go beyond statements of intentions, to accelerate the implementation of existing agreements and to use the coordination mechanisms established to address outstanding challenges. UNISFA and the Secretariat are ready to support. In the recent strategic review of UNISFA (S/2025/518), the Secretary-General outlined a reinvigorated political role for the mission, which stands ready to provide support to the parties as they plan a resumption of talks. As per its mandate, the African Union continues to have a critical role in facilitating engagement, and the mission will continue its close coordination with the African Union in this regard. In Abyei, UNISFA has continued to report an increased presence of Rapid Support Forces elements and associated individuals in northern Abyei. This presence has contributed to elevated levels of crime, in particular in Amiet market. The market’s rapid growth in recent years has made it a potential flashpoint for intercommunal South Sudanese security forces also continue to be present in southern Abyei, in violation of the demilitarized and weapons-free status of Abyei. In early October, fighting broke out among South Sudan People’s Defence Forces elements at Athony junction. Several soldiers were killed, and more than 100 civilians sought refuge at UNISFA bases. I reiterate the call for the immediate withdrawal of all armed forces and other armed actors from Abyei, in conformity with the weapons-free status of Abyei. While regional dynamics and the presence of the Rapid Support Forces have added complexity to relations between the communities in Abyei, the reduction in intercommunal violence seen in previous reporting periods has largely been maintained. UNISFA worked closely with the communities in this regard, including through the convening of a successful post-migration conference in Todach in May and June. The conference led to an agreement between Ngok Dinka and Misseriya representatives on the reverse migration. Nonetheless, tensions between the two communities, and underlying grievances, persist, notably in Amiet market. Tensions also continue to exist between the Ngok Dinka and Nuer communities. Last month, clashes between the two communities in southern Abyei led to more than 150 displaced people temporarily seeking refuge at two UNISFA bases. As outlined in the recent strategic review of UNISFA, the operational environment for the former logistics centre and Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism headquarters in Kadugli in the Sudan has become simply untenable. The presence of armed groups along the route has prevented resupply by road. Fighting in the area creates risks to the safety of peacekeepers at the base. The situation has become more dire with a surge in targeted drone strikes conducted by the Rapid Support Forces against the Sudanese Armed Forces, which has affected the air operations of the mission adversely. With headquarters functions for the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism already relocated to Abyei, UNISFA is undergoing a reduction of their presence in Kadugli. As the Mechanism’s operations continue from its two team sites in the Safe Demilitarized Border Zone, I urge the Government of the Sudan to provide support without delay towards the mission’s temporary withdrawal from Kadugli until the situation improves, including all the necessary clearances. The war in the Sudan and the continued influx of people displaced by the conflict continue to create economic hardship for the population of Abyei. UNISFA has worked to facilitate the activities of humanitarian partners, who continue to deliver support to those in need, including interventions targeting high levels of acute malnutrition among children. Funding challenges have had an impact on partners’ capacity for humanitarian support. Indeed, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations was forced to cease its operations in Abyei at the end of July, and the World Food Programme has reduced its footprint. The heightened humanitarian needs in Abyei, combined with the perennial lack of basic services, underscore the continued importance of the Joint Programme of the Resident Coordinators in the Sudan and South Sudan in Abyei, implemented with programmatic funding from UNISFA. The Joint Programme’s work towards building The mission’s work to promote the rule of law in Abyei is more critical than ever, as rising crime rates represent an aggravating factor for intercommunal tensions. This is particularly true in the Amiet market area. The recent strategic review outlined a plan to combine UNISFA’s military, police and civilian capacities to enhance its efforts in Amiet market. As the Secretary-General pointed out, however, the best way to provide vital rule of law and stabilization support in Amiet market is via the deployment of the formed police units authorized by the Security Council. I reiterate our urgent request to South Sudan and the Sudan to provide full support for the immediate deployment of these important assets, along with the full contingent of authorized individual police officers. United Nations police in UNISFA also continue to assist the community protection committees and the joint protection committee, which are community-based mechanisms that provide critical rule of law functions in the absence of the Abyei Police Service foreseen in the 2011 Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area. Women and peace and security priorities remain a high priority in UNISFA’s work, including increasing the numbers of female staff and promoting women’s participation in local conflict management. A notable success during the reporting period was the post-migration conference in May and June, with women making up 41 per cent of community representatives, up from 36 per cent at the pre-migration conference held in December 2024. A women’s conference organized in June, bringing together 132 women from the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya communities and leading to an agreement to establish a joint women’s committee, was another step forward. The liquidity situation facing the Organization, including peace operations, has forced UNISFA to implement contingency plans to reduce expenditures by 15 per cent for the current budget period. We must be upfront in acknowledging that these measures will have an impact on the mission’s mandate implementation capacity by reducing the number of military and civilian personnel, shrinking funds available for programmatic activities and straining mission support activities. They will also have an impact on the mission’s ability to implement the plans and recommendations outlined in the August 2025 strategic review. Nevertheless, the mission remains committed to implementing its mandate, including the protection of civilians in Abyei. UNISFA and the Department of Peace Operations will continue to engage closely with the host Governments, the local communities and the troop-contributing countries to ensure full and open communication as these changes are put into effect, and we rely on their understanding and cooperation as we navigate this new reality. I want to thank the acting Head of Mission and Force Commander, Major General Robert Yaw Affram, and all the uniformed and civilian personnel of UNISFA and the two country teams for their tireless efforts in support of peace and security in Abyei, in particular during these challenging times. I also want to thank the members of the Security Council for their consideration as we approach the possible mandate extension and for their continued support for UNISFA.

I thank Ms. Pobee for her briefing. I now give the floor to Mr. Cong. The bilateral relationship between the Sudan and South Sudan remains deeply affected by the war that started in April 2023 between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). In particular, the conflict in the Sudan continues to have an impact on the security situation in South Sudan, with cross- border movements of armed groups on both sides increasing the insecurity in and around the border area. The conflict in the Sudan and the deterioration of security are also compounding the already dire economic situation in South Sudan by affecting its primary source of revenue. South Sudan’s oil flow and exports through the Sudan have experienced significant disruptions, resulting in a 24.5 per cent contraction of its economy. Only after increased bilateral engagement and new arrangements to improve security along the pipeline route and other installations, oil production and transportation resumed early this year. However, subsequent attacks by the RSF on oil installations, notably drone strikes on fuel depots storing South Sudan’s crude in Port Sudan on 5 and 6 May, and another attack on 26 August on oil facilities in Hijelij, near the Sudan-South Sudan border, resulted in oil spills and environmental damage and led to an emergency shutdown of operations. In the meantime, both the Sudan and South Sudan continued to engage in efforts to secure oil infrastructure and improve the bilateral economic situation. From 4 to 6 October, the Minister for Foreign Affairs of South Sudan visited Port Sudan, where he held meetings with the Chair of the Transitional Sovereign Council, the Prime Minister, the Minister for Foreign Affairs and other senior Sudanese officials. The visit led to a series of bilateral agreements aimed at protecting oil facilities and pipeline installations, the establishment of a joint economic committee, the designation of a free trade zone at Port Sudan for South Sudan and increased cooperation on trade, investment, infrastructure and security. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regular political consultations and regional cooperation. These efforts mark a renewed bilateral commitment to stabilization and cooperation. Bilateral engagement between the Sudan and South Sudan on the final status of Abyei has been at a low point since the start of the war in the Sudan. South Sudan’s internal political challenges have further complicated this impasse. Since 2017, the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee has not been convened, and since January 2023, meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism between the two countries have remained suspended. The Sudan conflict continues to exacerbate the already dire humanitarian situation in Abyei. Approximately 41,000 displaced people from the Sudan have entered Abyei since the start of the Sudan war, placing immense pressure on already limited water, food, healthcare, shelter and other humanitarian resources. Families live in overcrowded conditions, with some households accommodating multiple displaced families. Communities are unable to start agricultural activities owing to displacement and insecurity. The war in the Sudan also increased the pressure on the Amiet market, with an influx of internally displaced persons and people from Kordofan converging around the Amiet area. Combined with rural populations relocating to major towns owing to conflict and flooding, this has led to a significant population surge in the Abyei area. The war in the Sudan is also affecting the security situation in Abyei. I note with concern that the growing presence and activities of the RSF in northern Abyei violates the 2011 Framework Agreement on Security Arrangements during the Although Abyei has enjoyed a relative period of calm in terms of intercommunal conflicts between the Ngok and Twic Dinka, as well as between the Ngok Dinka and the Misseriya, recent clashes between the SSPDF and the Sudan People’s Liberation Army in Opposition and increased attacks by armed Nuer elements on local communities have heightened insecurity in the region. Both the Misseriya and Ngok Dinka communities share growing frustration over the years of political uncertainty and the perceived inaction of both Governments regarding the future of Abyei. Against this backdrop, and in a welcome renewed effort to advance the Abyei political process, President Salva Kiir Mayardit reconstituted the South Sudan Abyei high level committee last month. In my meeting with the committee on 27 October in Addis Ababa, I expressed my full support for all efforts to improve the situation in Abyei and address its final status. While commending the stabilizing role of UNISFA, the committee urged full deployment of the United Nations police force and expressed hope that international partners would renew their diplomatic efforts regarding Abyei’s final status. Similarly, the Sudanese Minister for Foreign Affairs, in our meeting on 20 October, welcomed the reconstitution of South Sudan’s Abyei committee and assured us that the Sudanese Government intends to resume the joint bilateral meetings on Abyei. He also emphasized the Sudan’s commitment to enhanced bilateral cooperation with South Sudan to address shared security challenges. With both South Sudan and the Sudan expressing willingness to revive the political process regarding Abyei’s future, I look forward to supporting the African Union-led process, in line with the communiqué of the 1108th meeting of the Peace and Security Council, which reiterated the need to accelerate the implementation of the 2011 Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area and to resume the bilateral political dialogue on Abyei’s final status. The civilians living in the two areas, particularly in South Kordofan, continue to be affected by the Sudan war, given the fact that the overall Kordofan region, alongside Darfur, has become the epicentre of the battle between the SAF and the RSF. The local population is facing increasing insecurity with intensified fighting, including drone strikes in several locations, most recently in the capital city of Kadugli, the town of Dilling and in the Dallami area. The announcement in February of an alliance between the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement-North, led by Abdelaziz Al-Hilu, and the RSF, as well as the subsequent constitution of joint parallel institutions, rendered South Kordofan and Blue Nile more fragile. This shift in the conflict highlights the deep divide between the Sudan’s centre and its so-called peripheries. This significant development is a strong indication that the settlement of the situation in South Kordofan and Blue Nile cannot be separated from a national political dialogue and new institutional arrangements redefining the relationship between the centre of power and populations and territories that consider themselves excluded. Mediation efforts should provide an opportunity to address the long-standing status of South Kordofan and Blue Nile, which were initially part of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the Government of the Republic of the Sudan and the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement/Sudan People’s Liberation Army.

I thank Mr. Cong for his briefing. I shall now give the floor to those members of the Council who wish to make statements.

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee and Special Envoy Cong for their briefings today and for their valuable and ongoing contributions to advancing peace and security in Abyei. The United States is deeply concerned about the impediments by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) to the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) and the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism. The RSF’s efforts to gain legitimacy through the illegitimate arrest and detainment of Abyei residents and officials further violates the demilitarized status of Abyei and must cease immediately. Security concerns and operational constraints by the Rapid Support Forces, the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities have further forced the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism to temporarily relocate its Kadugli headquarters to Abyei and to close the Gok Machar headquarters, obstructing its mandated tasks. Meanwhile, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the South Sudan National Police Service continue to hinder UNISFA’s patrols, its logistics operations and its establishment of a temporary base and to occupy United Nations and civilian facilities. The United States calls on all parties involved to cooperate with the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, to ensure conditions for the full reactivation of its Kadugli and Gok Machar headquarters and to cease all obstructions of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism and of UNISFA’s mandate. The United States strongly urges the relevant authorities to withdraw all unauthorized armed forces and armed elements from the Abyei area, within their respective purviews, and it urges Council members, the African Union and the Sudanese and South Sudanese Governments to strengthen their efforts to support UNISFA and take all necessary steps to ensure the full demilitarization of Abyei. While we recognize that the Sudan and South Sudan are facing historic, significant internal challenges and instability, that does not absolve authorities of their responsibility to implement their key commitments under the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area to maintain Abyei as a demilitarized zone, to establish temporary administrative and security arrangements, including the joint Abyei Police Service, and to determine the final status of Abyei. The people of Abyei have been waiting 14 years for the establishment of the temporary administrative and security arrangements, including the joint Abyei Police Service, and for a determination of Abyei’s final status. On UNISFA, further long-standing delays in approving the deployment of the full 640 United Nations police personnel and three formed police units and in supporting the appointment of a civilian Deputy Head of Mission, both of which have been authorized by the Council, continue to obstruct the full implementation of UNISFA’s First, the United States calls on the Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities to promptly take concrete steps to withdraw all unauthorized forces from the demilitarized zone. The United States calls on the Sudan and South Sudan to establish the joint Abyei Police Service and to implement the temporary administrative and security arrangements. Secondly, we strongly urge the Sudan and South Sudan to facilitate the full implementation of UNISFA’s mandate. This includes the immediate authorization by all parties of visas for the 640 United Nations police personnel and the three formed police units, and supporting the appointment of a civilian Deputy Head of Mission. It also includes resuming the meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism without delay. Facilitating the prompt withdrawal of unauthorized forces and the issuance of visas for the 640 United Nations police personnel and the three formed police units should be prioritized by the parties as an essential first step. These actions will enable UNISFA’s military component to focus on maintaining Abyei as a demilitarized zone, which is critical amid rising encroachment by the RSF and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces. The Sudan and South Sudan must now uphold their commitment to the Agreement of 20 June 2011 and to UNISFA’s mandate to secure the United States’ support of this renewal.

I have the honour to deliver this statement on behalf of the three African members of the Security Council plus (A3+), namely, Algeria, Sierra Leone, Somalia and my country, Guyana. We thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee and Special Envoy Guang Cong for their detailed briefings on the situation in Abyei. We also welcome the participation of the representatives of the Sudan and South Sudan in this meeting. The situation in Abyei remains volatile, with the increased presence and activities of the Rapid Support Forces and other armed groups in the demilitarized zone. This is further compounded by the proliferation of small arms and light weapons in the area. The A3+ is deeply concerned that these developments have undermined the demilitarized status of Abyei and restricted the freedom of movement of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), thereby heightening volatility in the area. The A3+ thanks the Secretary-General for his report (S/2025/649) and welcomes the strategic assessment of the mission’s effectiveness and efficiency, given the changing dynamics on the ground. We wish to underscore the following three points. First, the priority must remain defining the final status of Abyei and addressing the outstanding border issues, with a view to holding the planned referendum, which will provide the region with the right to self-determination. We acknowledge the significant challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in the Sudan and by internal political developments in South Sudan. We also acknowledge the impact that these have had on efforts to finalize the status of Abyei and resume border demarcation activities. These challenges notwithstanding, the A3+ stresses the imperative of both countries adhering to the principles of the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area. In this regard, we call for all parties to respect the demilitarized and weapons-free status of the Abyei box and to comply with UNISFA. This includes ensuring its freedom of movement in line with the status-of-forces agreement and by working towards the full operationalization Secondly, concerted efforts must be made to improve the humanitarian environment in the Abyei box. The influx of displaced people is evident in the expansion of Amiet market. This situation continues to strain limited resources and is further compounded by a cholera outbreak, high rates of malaria and other water-borne diseases, food insecurity, the impact of climate change and a spike in criminality. The incidence of attacks on humanitarian workers and disruptions in aid delivery further exacerbate the crisis and must be addressed by relevant actors in both countries. We therefore reiterate our call for a ceasefire in the Sudan and for greater regional stability, urging all parties to prioritize the cessation of hostilities in both countries and to work towards restoring stability across the region. The A3+ takes note of the contingency plans implemented by the mission to reduce expenditure in a challenging local environment and global fiscal landscape, and it calls on the international community to support UNISFA with adequate and predictable resources towards the achievement of its mandate. Sustained financial support remains essential to prevent further deterioration in living conditions. We also welcome the mission’s efforts to integrate women and youth into peacebuilding initiatives, which have proven critical in intercommunal reconciliation and the overall improvement of the security environment in Abyei. In this context, we welcome the reduction of intercommunal clashes in Abyei, even as we remain concerned about tensions between the Misseriya and Ngok Dinka communities and between the Twic Dinka and Nuer communities. Turning to our final point, the A3+ emphasizes that comprehensive peacebuilding measures must include development initiatives. As such, we welcome the efforts of the Joint Programme of the Resident Coordinators in the Sudan and South Sudan in Abyei to improve basic service delivery in the areas of health, water, sanitation, hygiene and food and nutrition. Similarly, we note with appreciation the April 2025 Ngok-Twic youth peace accord. The collective efforts of the missions to facilitate peacebuilding and development should be sustained for the stabilization of Abyei. Ensuring that these missions have the necessary resources to fully undertake their mandate is therefore fundamental. While the final status of Abyei remains unresolved, UNISFA continues to play a pivotal role in promoting peace, stability and community reconciliation in Abyei. Sustained support remains critical. In this context, the A3+ reaffirms the vital role of the African Union and the Office of the Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa in fostering dialogue between the two countries and advancing efforts towards a sustainable resolution of Abyei’s final status. We reiterate, therefore, our full support to UNISFA and commend the troop- and police-contributing countries for their efforts towards peace in Abyei.

First of all, I would like to commend the Russian Federation for its effective stewardship of the Council during the month of October. I also wish to extend my warm congratulations to the Republic of Sierra Leone on assuming the presidency for November, and assure you, Mr. President, of my delegation’s full support. I would like to thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee and Special Envoy Guang Cong for their comprehensive briefings. I also welcome the participation of the representatives of the Sudan and South Sudan in this meeting. First, we reiterate that Abyei was intended to remain demilitarized and the withdrawal of all unauthorized forces is not optional. It is the legal baseline for any political or humanitarian progress. The continued expansion of Rapid Support Forces (RSF) activities in the northern part of the area, including illegal checkpoints and the arbitrary detention of local civilian administrators, undermines the very framework agreed in the 2011 Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area. Equally concerning is the increase in unauthorized operations by the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces in the southern area. Such activities, along with the proliferation of small arms and light weapons, further aggravate the already dire humanitarian situation for civilians. At the same time, we welcome the local peace initiatives, including the Ngok-Twic Dinka peace accord in April, and hope that such efforts can be further strengthened with the support of UNISFA. Secondly, safeguarding the civilians in Abyei is inseparable from safeguarding UNISFA’s ability to fully operate. We recall the Council’s press statement that was made after the February incident in which the RSF seized UNISFA fuel trucks. It is deeply regrettable and unacceptable that none of the seized fuel trucks have been returned to the mission to this day. We likewise condemn the repetition of attacks against UNISFA, including those targeting the mission’s military vehicles and posts in June and July, and severe restrictions on its movement owing to illegal checkpoints. All parties in Abyei must fully respect the status-of-forces agreement and take every measure necessary to ensure the safety and security of UNISFA personnel. Thirdly, peacekeeping alone cannot deliver a final settlement. What Abyei needs now is renewed political momentum, with both the Sudan and South Sudan re-engaging in the process to which they committed themselves. We urge both sides to reconvene the meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism and the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee, with UNISFA’s support. Given rising criminality and the absence of rule of law fuelling intercommunal violence in such places as Amiet market, deploying more police units is essential. We therefore call for the establishment of the Abyei police service and the issuance of all pending visas for the police officers. Furthermore, to sustain UNISFA’s support for the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, it is critical to create conducive conditions for the operation of the Mechanism in Kadugli. In the 2011 Agreement, the Parties “reiterated their commitment to resolve peacefully the final status of Abyei”. Fourteen years later, the promise remains, but progress has been absent. We believe that our task is not to rewrite that commitment, but to ensure its implementation. On that journey, UNISFA remains an essential partner on the ground. The Republic of Korea will, therefore, continue to support UNISFA’s critical efforts and will actively engage in the Council’s discussion on the upcoming renewal of its mandate.

We congratulate Sierra Leone as it assumes the presidency of the Security Council, and we wish it every success. We would like to thank Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Ms. Martha Pobee, and Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, Guang The Security Council extended the mandate of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) in November 2024, but progress in resolving the situation there remains scant. The protracted conflict in the Sudan, on the one hand, and the stalled political process in South Sudan, on the other, are preventing the two parties from properly getting down to work on determining the final status of this territory. Both States are confronting financial deficits and humanitarian issues, alongside political blackmail and external interference, including through the use of illegitimate unilateral measures against them. This is pulling them ever further away from starting substantive negotiations on Abyei. Under such circumstances, it is hardly appropriate for the Security Council to compel the parties to expedite negotiations on the border or revive bilateral cooperation mechanisms. It is important to give the Sudanese and South Sudanese room for manoeuvre to demonstrate that the United Nations stands ready to continue closely monitoring the situation in Abyei until the requisite conditions for dialogue between the two capitals are ripe. Exerting pressure on the parties could have a negative impact on both the security situation and the activities of United Nations personnel there. We must heed the tragic lessons of the past and do our utmost to avoid steps that could exacerbate violence in Abyei. We have taken note of the objective difficulties faced by the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism. There is also the pressing problem of how to supply the Mechanism’s team sites. We trust that the Sudanese Government will pay special attention to sustaining the activities of the Mechanism, with due regard for the difficult security situation in some southern regions of the country. A new threat to security in Abyei is the appearance in the region of elements linked to the rebel Rapid Support Forces. In the absence of deterrents that could prevent their illegal entry into the sector, the South Sudanese army has been compelled to deploy its divisions there on a temporary basis and solely in the interest of maintaining stability and security. We are convinced that Juba is fully cognizant of the fact that, as the situation stabilizes, it will have to engage constructively on the issue of Abyei’s demilitarized status. The humanitarian situation in the area remains complex, but on the whole, it is manageable. UNISFA peacekeepers, United Nations humanitarian agencies and their partners are making a significant contribution. We are of the view that maintaining the presence of the Blue Helmets in the area remains relevant. We believe that the configuration of UNISFA in the immediate future will factor in the presence of both a military and a police contingent. It is worth noting that modifying the proportions of these components to increase the civilian and law enforcement component is, in our view, premature. There are concerns that the security of the latter will be much harder to ensure. We are convinced that, given the ongoing unresolved status of Abyei and general tensions in the Sudan and South Sudan, we should refrain from taking any drastic steps aimed at reconfiguring the mission’s activities or reducing its footprint on the ground.

I congratulate you, Mr. President, on assuming the presidency of the Council and assure you of our full support and cooperation. We also deeply appreciate the Russian presidency, which was conducted in a smooth and professional manner last month. I thank the Secretary-General for his most recent report on Abyei (S/2025/649) and Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee for the valuable briefing. We welcome the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, Mr. Guang Cong, to his new role, and we also thank him for his briefing and wish him all the very best. The situation in Abyei remains fragile. The ongoing conflict in the Sudan continues to spill across borders, aggravating insecurity, humanitarian suffering and arms proliferation. South Sudan’s internal challenges have further complicated the situation. It is not surprising, therefore, that there has been no progress on the final status of Abyei or on border demarcation. Pakistan joins others in urging both the Sudan and South Sudan to re-energize and re-engage in meaningful dialogue, as this remains the only sustainable pathway towards resolving this long-standing issue. Pakistan reaffirms that the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area must be fully respected. Abyei must remain a demilitarized and weapons-free zone. The continued presence of South Sudanese security forces in southern Abyei violates the agreement and undermines UNISFA’s mandate. The increased presence of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sector North has further destabilized the situation. The reporting period saw 127 security incidents, with 34 fatalities. We are deeply alarmed by RSF checkpoints, the July attack on the joint protection committee station and the continued proliferation of small arms. We call for the withdrawal of all unauthorized armed elements, unimpeded freedom of movement for UNISFA and the immediate return of United Nations property. The eight United Nations fuel trucks seized by the Rapid Support Forces on 28 February must be returned to UNISFA without delay, and the RSF should be held accountable for attacks on UNISFA personnel. At the same time, we recognize positive progress at the community level. Relations between the Ngok Dinka and Misseriya have continued to improve, aided by UNISFA’s facilitation of pre- and post-migration conferences and peace dialogues. These are modest yet meaningful gains that deserve full support. The Pakistani contingent has been deeply involved in these community engagements. The international community should sustain these reconciliation and livelihood programmes through predictable funding for the Joint Programme of the Resident Coordinators in the Sudan and South Sudan in Abyei, which remains central to peacebuilding and resilience. We remain concerned about the mission’s financial situation. While $309 million were appropriated for the financial year 2025–26, unpaid assessed contributions already exceed $138 million, with overall peacekeeping arrears nearing $4 billion. We encourage all Member States to pay their contributions in full and on time. The Security Council bears primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security — a duty that lies at the very heart of the Charter of the United Nations. United Nations peacekeeping is one of the Council’s most visible and effective tools for fulfilling that mandate. The Council cannot shy away from its primary responsibility citing financial crisis. Pakistan stresses that UNISFA’s mandate renewal, currently under negotiations, should be smooth. Given the situations in the Sudan and South Sudan, our expectations should be based on the realities on the ground. At the same time, we must also realize that in the absence of UNISFA, the risks are stark: a rapid escalation of intercommunal violence, accelerated arms proliferation, the collapse of migration arrangements and security, a sharp deterioration in humanitarian access and expanding cross-border instability that would outpace any political track.

I would like to thank Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee and Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa Guang Cong for their valuable contributions. In addition, I would like to thank the Secretary-General for his report on UNISFA for the period April to October 2025 (S/2025/649), and I welcome the representatives of the Sudan and South Sudan to this meeting today. Greece remains concerned about the continued lack of progress on the political track regarding the final status of Abyei. Amid the war in the Sudan and political uncertainty in South Sudan, no meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism and the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee were held during the reporting period. We call on all parties to urgently resume dialogue and reactivate these mechanisms. Although the security situation in Abyei remains generally stable, it remains highly unpredictable, and there is no doubt that the ongoing war in the Sudan continues to directly affect both the security and the humanitarian situations on the ground. Allow me to highlight three key points. First, Greece strongly condemns the presence and actions of the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Abyei. As also highlighted in the Secretary-General’s report, RSF elements continue to operate unlawfully in the area, establishing checkpoints, interfering with community structures and exerting control. Their takeover of facilities, detention of officials and attempts to assert authority are deeply alarming and violate the demilitarized status of Abyei under the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area. We call for the immediate withdrawal of all RSF elements, the release of those arbitrarily detained and full respect for Abyei’s weapons-free and neutral character. Secondly, we underscore the importance of security guarantees and full freedom of movement for the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, which is essential to prevent escalation along the porous border. The Mechanism continues to face serious security constraints, including airspace closure, seizure of United Nations-contracted fuel trucks, patrol restrictions and even firing incidents against United Nations aircraft, forcing a temporary reduction of UNISFA’s presence in Kadugli and reliance on air resupply. Unhindered movement and the safety of mission personnel are vital to maintaining stability and upholding the demilitarized status of the Abyei Area. Greece therefore echoes the Secretary-General’s call for all parties to support the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, remove all obstacles to its operations and uphold their commitments under the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area. Thirdly, turning to the humanitarian situation, the needs in Abyei remain severe. According to the report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/649), more than 12,000 people displaced by the conflict in the Sudan arrived during the reporting period, further straining limited services and heightening tensions. We are also deeply concerned by the cholera outbreak, with more than 3,100 suspected cases, and by widespread child malnutrition. In this regard, Greece remains deeply concerned about the protection of children, including reported cases of sexual violence against minors. The presence of armed actors, the proliferation of small arms and ongoing displacement further heighten their vulnerability. We underscore the need for accountability, strengthened child protection monitoring and comprehensive survivor support. Protecting children must remain central to all our efforts, in line with international humanitarian and human rights law. Greece strongly supports UNISFA and calls for the deployment of the remaining authorized police units to strengthen the rule of law and community protection. In view of the upcoming renewal of UNISFA’s mandate, it is vital that the mission continues to provide security on the ground in order for the political track to advance.

I congratulate Sierra Leone on assuming the presidency of the Council this month. Mr. President, the Chinese delegation will fully cooperate with you and your team. I also congratulate Russia on successfully completing its presidency last month. I thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee and Special Envoy Guang Cong for their briefings and welcome the participation of the representatives of the Sudan and South Sudan in today’s meeting. At present, amid rising conflict in the Sudan and its spillover effects and political uncertainty in South Sudan, the political process in Abyei and the area’s peace and development are facing increased challenges. China recommends that the international community provide support in the following four aspects. First, it should provide support by steadily advancing the political process in the Abyei area. The Sudan and South Sudan, the parties involved in the Abyei issue, must coordinate and cooperate for a political solution. China welcomes both sides’ recent expression of their willingness to revitalize the political process. Currently, both the Sudan and South Sudan face a number of difficulties. The international community should respect both countries’ sovereignty and ownership, demonstrate sufficient inclusiveness and patience, encourage them to maintain the momentum of dialogue and resume meetings of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism at a suitable moment in order to create conditions conducive to a settlement of the final status and border issues of Abyei. The Security Council should avoid exerting undue pressure so as not to exacerbate conflict and become counterproductive. China encourages Special Envoy Guang Cong to coordinate with the African Union, Intergovernmental Authority on Development and other parties to resolve the issue of the Abyei area. Secondly, the international community should ensure support by maintaining security and stability in Abyei. China welcomes the agreement reached between the Ngok-Dinka and Misseriya communities on transhumance, as well as the improved relationship between the Ngok-Dinka and Twic-Dinka communities, through cooperation. We encourage UNISFA to sustain the momentum of intercommunal dialogue and to urge all parties to break the cycle of violence, bridge differences and improve mutual trust for harmonious coexistence. Issues such as the cross-border movement of armed personnel and the proliferation of small arms increase security risks in the area. China encourages the Sudan and South Sudan to strengthen coordination and cooperation in jointly implementing the temporary agreement and urges the Rapid Support Forces and other parties to respect the demilitarized and weapon-free status of Abyei and to maintain local peace and stability. Thirdly, support should be provided by focusing on addressing humanitarian and development issues. External conflicts have led to a massive influx of displaced persons and returnees into Abyei, exacerbating the local humanitarian crisis. China commends the prompt humanitarian response by United Nations agencies and calls on the international community to provide greater assistance and support. Resource scarcity and underdevelopment are the root causes of the conflict in Abyei. China supports accelerating the implementation of the Joint Programme of the Resident Coordinators in the Sudan and South Sudan in Abyei and supports UNISFA in Fourthly, the international community should help UNISFA to better deliver on its mandates. China commends UNISFA’s contributions to maintaining stability in Abyei, easing intercommunal tensions and promoting social development, despite difficult circumstances. We encourage the Governments of the Sudan and South Sudan to support and facilitate, to the greatest possible degree, the rotation of UNISFA personnel, logistical resupply and the transportation of equipment and materials. China condemns the attack against UNISFA helicopters and urges the immediate return of assets belonging to UNISFA. UNISFA should strengthen security measures and enhance safety assessments to prevent further attacks on peacekeepers. The Security Council is currently consulting on UNISFA’s mandate renewal. As one of the main troop-contributing countries to UNISFA, China fully supports the mission in focusing on its core mandate, delivering its mandate consistently and efficiently and continuing to contribute to peace, stability and lasting security in Abyei.

I congratulate the Russian delegation on its skilful leadership of the Security Council during the past month, and I also congratulate you, Mr. President, and Sierra Leone, on assuming responsibility for leading the Council during the month of November. I am sure that you will be successful, and we stand ready to support your efforts. Panama thanks the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Martha Pobee, and the Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Guang Cong, for their updates on the current situation in Abyei. Panama acknowledges the presence at this meeting of the representatives of the Sudan and South Sudan, who honour us with their participation. Abyei remains an area of key political and symbolic importance for peace between the Sudan and South Sudan. The lack of a settlement of its final status, as provided for in the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement and the 2011 Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area, keeps the region in a state of constant tension and prolongs uncertainty for its communities. Panama views with concern the deterioration in the security conditions in Abyei. The recent report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/649) documents a significant increase in security incidents and deaths compared to the previous period. This includes an increase in sporadic incidents involving firearms near United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) facilities. The recent clashes between armed groups have forced the evacuation of more than 100 civilians, mainly women and children, and have led dozens of people to seek refuge in UNISFA facilities. These events reflect the serious risks to which the civilian population is exposed and underscore the urgent need to strengthen protection mechanisms and advance effective political dialogue to prevent the escalation of violence. The situation in the Sudan and intercommunal dynamics in the region have increased insecurity and criminality, creating additional risks for peacekeeping personnel. The presence of armed actors in violation of the demilitarized status of the area established in 2011 continues to hamper the monitoring and protection work of UNISFA and the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism and must therefore cease immediately. Panama underscores the need to revitalize the political dialogue on Abyei and border security in order to create safe conditions for the population and move towards a lasting solution to the final status. UNISFA must also enjoy full support, freedom of movement and adequate staffing to fulfil its mandate Panama urges the parties to comply fully with the 2005 peace agreement and the 2011 temporary arrangements and reiterates the importance of guaranteeing the safety of all mission personnel. The international community must maintain its coordinated action to ensure that UNISFA receives resources, cooperation and political backing, creating the conditions for an effective political process that will lead to stability and the peaceful resolution of the persistent challenges in the region.

We thank the briefers and commend the personnel of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) for their dedication under increasingly complex and unpredictable conditions. I wish to make the following three points. First, Abyei’s fragile stability continues to erode under the weight of overlapping crises  — the war in the Sudan, instability in South Sudan, the lack of progress on Abyei’s final status, the proliferation of State and non-State armed actors and weapons and the growing impact of climate-related shocks, to name a few. The protracted political vacuum is untenable. Slovenia calls on the Sudan and South Sudan to resume dialogue to resolve outstanding issues and ensure that Abyei remains a political priority. The increased presence of armed actors — the Rapid Support Forces in the north and the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and South Sudan National Police Service in the south — constitutes a clear violation of the 2011 agreement and undermines Abyei’s demilitarized and weapon-free status. All armed actors must withdraw immediately and unconditionally. We remain deeply concerned about the reported proliferation of small arms and light weapons fuelling crime and intercommunal violence. Climate stress and resource scarcity further aggravate competition and displacement and must be addressed with a sense of urgency. Secondly, the humanitarian and human rights situation continues to deteriorate. Cholera outbreaks, food insecurity and growing displacement continue to devastate communities, while cuts are forcing humanitarian partners to scale back critical services. We underscore that humanitarian access must remain safe and unhindered, and humanitarian workers must be protected. We strongly condemn the human rights violations, including arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and sexual violence. Likewise, we are gravely alarmed by reports of sexual and gender-based violence, especially against minors. Survivors deserve justice and comprehensive support. Silence and impunity are not acceptable. Slovenia commends UNISFA’s continued engagement with local leaders to promote reconciliation and coexistence between the Ngok Dinka, Misseriya and Twic Dinka communities. The mission’s facilitation of joint peace committees, traditional leaders’ dialogues and women’s and youth conferences remains vital in easing tensions and preventing escalation. We wish to stress that women’s leadership and participation are central to local peacebuilding. Thirdly, UNISFA remains a vital stabilizing presence in an increasingly volatile region. Yet it continues to face serious constraints  — restrictions on freedom of movement, repeated status-of-forces agreement violations and persistent obstruction, threats and safety incidents against its personnel. Such actions are unacceptable. We call on all parties to fully respect their obligations under the status-of-forces agreement and to guarantee UNISFA’s safe, unhindered access by air and land. The situation around the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism in Kadugli remains highly alarming. Insecurity and access restrictions continue to jeopardize its operations and the safety of United Nations personnel. We call on the parties to guarantee the safety and freedom of movement of all United Nations staff and to create conditions for the Mechanism’s safe functioning. We commend UNISFA’s continued mentoring of community protection committees and joint protection units Abyei cannot remain a forgotten flashpoint. A sustainable ceasefire in the Sudan, political re-engagement by both countries and the implementation of the 2011 agreement are prerequisites for lasting stability. Until Abyei’s final status is determined, UNISFA remains indispensable. Slovenia fully supports the renewal of UNISFA’s mandate and underlines the mission’s essential role in maintaining peace and security and protecting civilians in Abyei.

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee and Special Envoy Cong for their briefings today. I will make three points. First, the United Kingdom reiterates its full support for the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) and its mandate. The Secretary-General’s report (S/2025/649) highlights the mission’s ongoing critical role and efforts to prevent instability. This includes UNISFA’s quick reaction forces and community peace initiatives, and the establishment of joint women’s peace communities by local communities is particularly encouraging in this regard. However, it is regrettable that UNISFA continues to face serious constraints, including violations of the status-of- forces agreement and restricted movement caused by the presence of South Sudanese forces and Rapid Support Forces fighters. We call on all armed groups to withdraw from Abyei, in line with the 2011 agreement that Abyei would be demilitarized and weapons free. We further urge the Sudan to issue visas for UNISFA police and civilian personnel without delay to enable the mission to address rising security and rule of law challenges. Secondly, the deteriorating humanitarian and security situation in Abyei is of grave concern. Arrivals of a growing number of displaced people, many as a direct consequence of the conflict in the Sudan, are increasing pressure on limited resources and straining intercommunal relations. The rising presence of armed actors, including the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, is unacceptable. This is having a significant impact on the safety of civilians, including the suspension of mine clearance operations owing to local intimidation. We stress the need for safe and unhindered access to enable the protection of civilians. Thirdly, we regret that there has been no progress in the political process between the Sudan and South Sudan on the final status of Abyei and border issues. It is essential that both sides re-engage and take concrete steps towards resolving outstanding border issues despite the conflict in the Sudan and political uncertainty in South Sudan. Finally, it is clear that the implementation of UNISFA’s mandate remains essential to maintaining peace in this increasingly fragile region. The United Kingdom looks forward to engaging in constructive discussions in support of the renewal of the mission’s mandate.

At the outset, I would like to thank the Assistant Secretary-General for Africa, Ms. Martha Pobee, and the Special Envoy for the Horn of Africa, Mr. Guang Cong, for their briefings. Those briefings served as a reminder that the situation in the Abyei region remains tense. Given the regional context, further deterioration cannot be ruled out. Against this backdrop, I will emphasize three points. Secondly, France calls upon the Sudan and South Sudan to allow the mission to function fully. We call upon the Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities to grant the necessary visas for the deployment of police officers, mandated formed police units and humanitarian personnel. We reiterate our call on the South Sudanese authorities to withdraw the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces, which are present in the area in contravention of the demilitarized status of Abyei. All parties must remove obstacles to the mission’s freedom of movement, including in the environs of the Kadugli base, to which access must be unobstructed and secure. France calls for the prompt appointment of a Deputy Head of Mission in order to facilitate contact between the parties and calls upon the parties themselves to resume talks as part of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism. Thirdly, the escalation of the war in the Sudan, in particular in the Kordofans, and instability in South Sudan pose a grave threat to Abyei’s stability. France calls for the immediate withdrawal of the Rapid Support Forces. We condemn the threat that they pose to UNISFA, in particular the abduction of mission personnel in February. More broadly, we are concerned about the regional impact of the conflict in the Sudan and the risk of spillover into South Sudan. The parties to the conflict in the Sudan must undertake unconditional negotiations with the aim of establishing a ceasefire, to be followed by a credible political process. France remains determined to support the Sudanese and South Sudanese people, who face a security, humanitarian and economic crisis that is particularly severe, and to contribute to the restoration of peace.

Let me thank Assistant Secretary-General Pobee and Special Envoy Cong for their briefings. In particular, we welcome Special Envoy Cong to the Chamber for his first briefing since his appointment, even virtually. Allow me to make three points. First, the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA) represents a critical pillar of security and stability in Abyei. Denmark expresses full support for the continued fulfilment of the mission’s mandate. Denmark strongly condemns any form of violence against United Nations troops, including the February 2025 incident perpetrated by the Rapid Support Forces. We call for accountability under international humanitarian law. Denmark supports the urgent deployment of additional police personnel to ensure that the mission can uphold the rule of law and provide safety and security alongside its military units, especially in and around Amiet market. In this regard, we call on the Sudanese and South Sudanese authorities to urgently grant all necessary visas to civilian and police personnel. Secondly, the humanitarian situation in Abyei remains concerning. The influx of refugees, returnees and displaced people has led to a surge in demand for aid, amid high levels of food insecurity and health challenges. Regrettably, at the same time, the provision and funding of this aid have declined. Climate change intersects with existing conflict dynamics by disrupting traditional mobility patterns for farmers and herders, affecting the availability of water and grazing land. This intersection Thirdly, Abyei is caught between crisis and conflict to the north and to the south. The ongoing war in the Sudan profoundly affects the region’s stability, triggering large-scale displacement into Abyei while increasing security incidents. We renew our call for an urgent ceasefire in the Sudan. Denmark remains concerned about the continuing presence of the Rapid Support Forces, the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces and other armed elements in Abyei. We strongly urge them to withdraw from the demilitarized zone. The Sudan and South Sudan must respect the status-of-forces agreement, and we urge both sides to address the issues related to the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism. In conclusion, the people of Abyei remain trapped in a complex emergency, with spillovers from conflicts in neighbouring areas, immense humanitarian needs and threats of intercommunal violence. Denmark remains committed to supporting UNISFA’s role in ensuring peace and stability in the area.

I now give the floor to the representative of the Sudan.

At the outset, I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to you, Mr. President, and your friendly country on your assumption of the presidency of the Security Council for the month of November, and we wish you every success in steering the Council’s work during this critical period. We also express our appreciation to the Russian Federation for its presidency of the Council in October. I also thank Ms. Martha Pobee, Assistant Secretary- General for Africa in the Departments of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs and Peace Operations, and Mr. Guang Cong, Special Envoy of the Secretary-General for the Horn of Africa, for their briefings on the implementation of the mandate of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA). My delegation reviewed the report of the Secretary-General (S/2025/649) and the relevant comments contained therein. The Sudan reaffirms its full commitment to the political and legal terms of reference that govern the current situation in the Abyei region, which constitute the legitimate regulatory framework for all efforts undertaken there. The presence of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei is one of the most important embodiments of those terms of reference, foremost among which are the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area, signed in June 2011, and the cooperation agreements between the Sudan and South Sudan. These terms of reference provide for the establishment of temporary structures and mechanisms, including a joint administration, a joint legislative council and a joint Abyei police force, until a final settlement acceptable to both parties is reached in Abyei that takes into account the realities on the ground, reflects the aspirations of the social components in the region and guarantees them security, peace and lasting social harmony. The Sudan sees no alternative to strict adherence to these terms of reference or to the implementation of their provisions in letter and spirit. On more than one occasion, the Sudan has affirmed its full readiness to establish those temporary administrative and security mechanisms, including the formation of the joint police force, the administration and the legislative council. The Sudan I would like to focus on the following four points. First, the Sudan affirms its commitment to maintaining security and stability in Abyei and stresses the need to avoid any unilateral actions that could threaten this stability or complicate the mission of UNISFA. We also affirm that the region must be free of any armed presence north and south of the zero line, including the illegal presence of Rapid Support Forces militias. We call on the Secretariat and UNISFA to work to put an end to the unwanted presence of any armed elements in the region. In that regard, it is also imperative to hold the Rapid Support Forces accountable for their attacks on UNISFA personnel and for their plunder of the mission’s assets. Secondly, the Government of the Sudan reaffirms its full commitment to implementing the Agreement on Temporary Arrangements for the Administration and Security of the Abyei Area and its adherence to the border demarcation process in accordance with the agreements adopted, while rejecting any attempts to change the demographic reality or illegally expand within the territory of the region. We reiterate that a just settlement of the Abyei issue can only be achieved through a bilateral agreement between the two States that is acceptable to the local social components and stakeholders. Thirdly, the Sudan calls on UNISFA to strengthen its development programmes, in particular quick-impact projects, given their direct impact on the stability of local communities and the improvement of livelihoods, especially in the areas of education, health, drinking water and community security. We also call on the mission, in coordination with the United Nations country team in the Sudan and South Sudan for Abyei and the competent humanitarian agencies, to intensify efforts to meet the humanitarian needs of displaced persons and returnees to the region in the aftermath of security developments in some areas of the Sudan. Fourthly, the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining security and stability until the situation in Abyei is definitively resolved. In that context, the Sudan is determined to enable the mission to carry out its mandate, in accordance with the relevant Security Council resolutions. We therefore welcome the start of discussions on renewing the mission’s mandate and its support for the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism, given the Mechanism’s importance in building trust and strengthening cooperation between the two countries. We firmly believe that it is necessary for the Mechanism’s leadership to remain in Kadugli to fulfil its mandate, and we are committed to overcoming any obstacles that its office may face in Kadugli. In conclusion, the Sudan reaffirms its commitment to working closely with the Government of South Sudan to strengthen the role of the Joint Political and Security Mechanism and the Abyei Joint Oversight Committee and to work together to activate all bilateral mechanisms stipulated in the agreements signed between the two countries. The Sudan believes that a sustainable solution to the Abyei issue can only be achieved through dialogue and sincere cooperation between the two countries, devoid of any escalation and in a manner that guarantees the interests of the two brotherly peoples and enshrines lasting peace in the region.

I now give the floor to the representative of South Sudan.

At the outset, allow me to congratulate you, Mr. President, on assuming the presidency of the Security Council for the month of November. We assure you of our delegation’s full support and cooperation. We As the Council discusses the Secretary-General’s report on the situation in Abyei (S/2025/649) and the mandate of the United Nations Interim Security Force for Abyei (UNISFA), the Government of the Republic of South Sudan wishes to express its appreciation for the vital role played by UNISFA in ensuring the security, protection and well-being of the people of Abyei. We value the genuine efforts aimed at improving the lives and livelihoods of our people in Abyei. We also welcome many elements of the Secretary-General’s report and the ongoing endeavours towards stability and security in Abyei. However, we must express concern that some aspects of the report place emphasis on matters of a superficial nature, rather than the core issues affecting the safety of civilians and the stability of the region. South Sudan has no intention of hindering or intervening in UNISFA’s mandate. The presence of the South Sudan People’s Defence Forces in South Sudan’s territories is meant to protect civilians and discourage intercommunal rivalry. We take note of and appreciate the mention of improved relations between the communities neighbouring Abyei, as reflected in the Secretary-General’s report. Without this presence, the situation would have deteriorated significantly. With regard to the allegations of violations of the status-of-forces agreement, South Sudan feels that these are often generalized and lack specificity. Incidents of searches or delays in issuing tax exemptions should not be misinterpreted. Searches occur only when credible intelligence indicates misuse of mission assets. The administrative processing of tax exemptions is handled by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs, with timelines driven by the documentation required and the geographical distance of Abyei from Juba. These should not be portrayed as intentional delays. Practical coordination is needed to meet procedural requirements without compromising controls. Finally, referencing the presence of South Sudanese security forces in South Sudan territories in such areas as Panyikang — as stated in the report — as if these areas fall within Abyei is inaccurate and misleading to the external audience. Such assertions appear aimed at equating the lawful presence of South Sudanese forces within recognized South Sudanese territory with the activities of other non-State elements in or near other areas of Abyei. This mischaracterization must be addressed, as it risks implying that South Sudan is acting outside the UNISFA mandate where it is not. Resolution 1990 (2011), of 27 June 2011, establishing UNISFA, is extremely explicit on the limitation of the mission’s mandate in the Abyei area. In conclusion, South Sudan reiterates the importance of UNISFA in protecting civilians, supporting livelihoods and reducing intercommunal tensions in Abyei. We stress the need for the mission to remain well-resourced and focused on preventing violations, rather than merely reporting the outcome thereof. We sincerely extend our gratitude to the force-contributing countries that constitute UNISFA. We are all in this to ensure a stable and secure future for the people of Abyei, and we stand ready to work together to achieve this goal. And as we do so, let there be no mistake: Abyei and its people have always remained and will continue to remain among the top tier of South Sudan’s highest priorities. This is an existential and a constant principle.

There are no more names inscribed on the list of speakers. I now invite Council members to informal consultations to continue our discussion of the subject.