The European Union welcomes the recent
steps towards normalisation of bilateral relations between Sudan and its
neighbours, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Uganda, and reaffirms the importance
of a constructive dialogue aiming at stability and co-operation in the
region. It recalls that the normalisation of such relations is one of the
elements addressed in the current "renewed dialogue" between
the European Union and the Government of Sudan. The European Union looks
forward to further steps in Sudan's relations with its neighbours to enhance
the prospect of peace, stability and co-operation in the region.
The European Union encourages the Sudanese
and the Ugandan authorities to abide by the provisions of the agreement
signed on 8 December 1999. The European Union calls on both parties to
renounce any military action, to cease military or logistical support to
any rebel groups in each other's territories and to end the climate of
hostility that has caused immense suffering to the civilian population.
The European Union encourages the release of all prisoners of war and the
return of all abducted persons - especially children - to their families.
The European Union also welcomes, together with the consolidation of relations between Sudan and Ethiopia, the Sudanese and Eritrean decision to resume diplomatic relations, which will help to improve the security and stability of the region. It encourages the opening of common borders and the resumption of scheduled flights between the two countries.
The Central and Eastern European countries associated with the European Union, the associated countries Cyprus, Malta and Turkey, and the EFTA countries, members of the European Economic Area align themselves with this declaration.