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. RICE