Thank you, Mr. President. And thank you, SRSG Perthes, for your very thoughtful briefing.

Reaching a final political agreement on a new civilian-led transitional government is essential to end Sudan’s political crisis and address its urgent political, economic, security, and humanitarian challenges.

We acknowledge the significant work done in Phase 2 of the Framework Agreement process and urge the parties to capitalize on it by swiftly finalizing agreement on a new civilian-led government and interim constitutional arrangements that allow Sudan to resume its democratic transition.

We acknowledge that military leaders have reiterated their willingness to withdraw the military from politics. We call on all parties to put Sudan’s national interest above narrow political ends and urgently and constructively engage with one another to reach a final political agreement that realizes the Sudanese people’s continued calls for freedom, peace, and justice. In support of this and recognizing the fragility of democratic transitions, the United States will promote accountability for spoilers – whether military or political actors – who attempt to undermine or delay Sudan’s democratic progress.

We continue our support for this Sudanese-led process in close coordination with the trilateral mechanism. We urge all parties to engage in good faith dialogue and ensure women, youth, displaced persons, and representatives from all over Sudan have the opportunity to participate in shaping their country’s future.

For this process to succeed, the parties must foster an environment conducive to the participation of all stakeholders so they may freely express their views without fear of retribution. Furthermore, all Sudanese must be protected from all forms of violence.

Full respect for the freedoms of association, expression, and peaceful assembly is vital. We have consistently condemned violence against – and unjust detentions of – peaceful protesters. We renew the call for those responsible to be held accountable.

Turning to Darfur, we note that the security situation remains extremely volatile and dangerous, and we note with concern increased tensions and violence in other regions. Chronic violence highlights the urgent need for Juba Peace Agreement implementation, including the full deployment of the Joint Security Keeping Forces in Darfur, inclusive security sector reform, and comprehensive, inclusive, and transparent transitional justice processes.

Thank you, Mr. President.

Original source can be found here.