UNSC CONSULTATIONS BY ICC PROSECUTOR ON SUDAN

UNCLAS STATE 127068

SIPDIS

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL UNSC XA
SUBJECT: UNSC CONSULTATIONS BY ICC PROSECUTOR ON SUDAN
DECEMBER 3


1. This is an action request. USUN should make the
statement in paragraph 2 during the December 3 UN Security
Council consultations by ICC Chief Prosecutor Ocampo. End
Action.


2. Begin Statement:

I would like to thank ICC Chief Prosecutor Ocampo for his
briefing to the UN Security Council regarding Sudan. Today,
I would like to make four points.

First, the United States expresses its grave concerns over
the situation in Sudan, particularly Darfur. The
humanitarian situation remains dire and attacks on
civilians, by both Government of Sudan (GOS) forces and
rebel groups alike, continue.

Second, we support the Darfur peace process efforts of
UN/African Union Chief Mediator Djibril Bassole.
Ultimately, our primary and immediate goal is to see
measurable improvement of the situation on the ground for
the people of Darfur, not mere declarations or promises.

Third, we note with interest the Government of Sudan's
announcement of an unilateral ceasefire in Darfur and its
recognition that such a ceasefire should have a monitoring
mechanism to enforce it. However, we are deeply
disappointed by continued violence in Darfur, including
attacks by rebel movements and the Sudan Armed Forces. A
viable and lasting ceasefire is a vital step towards
establishing peace in Darfur and the region as a whole.

Fourth, the United States remains steadfastly
committed to promoting the rule of law and helping bring
violators of international humanitarian law to
justice, and will continue to take a leadership role in
righting these wrongs. We applaud efforts to identify
and bring to justice any persons perpetrating crimes
against the people of SudanOur previous actions with
respect to the terrible crimes being committed in Sudan
should leave no doubt about the strength of our commitments.
The international community cannot ignore the atrocities and
massive human suffering that has occurred during the ongoing
conflict in Darfur, which the United States has declared to be
genocide.

The United States has domestically designated, and thus
barred from the U.S. financial system, seven individuals
and multiple entities for conduct or financing related to
the conflict in Darfur. The UNSC Sudan Sanctions
Committee is able to designate those who impede the peace
process, constitute a threat to stability in Darfur and
the region, commit violations of international
humanitarian or human rights law or other atrocities,
violate the arms embargo, or are responsible for offensive
military overflights. The U.S. urges the Sanctions
Committee to responsibly use the tools at its disposal in
order to prevent further violence in Darfur. We encourage
members of the Sanctions Committee to allow for meaningful
follow up to the recommendations made by the Panel of
Experts, and urge the Council to request briefings from
the Permanent Representatives of Sudan and Chad.

Lastly, we thank ICC Chief Prosecutor Ocampo for keeping the
Council informed of developments on Sudan.

End Points.
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