Delivered By: Ghasaq Shaheen, Political Coordinator

Mr. President,

I thank the International Criminal Court Prosecutor, Mr. Karim Khan, for the comprehensive briefing. I also welcome the Representative of Sudan to today’s meeting. In the context of today’s discussion, the UAE continues to closely follow the work of the Court, and its activities in this context.

We would also like to express our sincere condolences and sympathy to Sudan and the families of the victims of recent floods and rains. We affirm the UAE’s continued support and humanitarian assistance to those affected. We are all confident that Sudan and its people will be able to overcome this situation.

Mr. President,

In light of the exceptional circumstances Sudan is going through, the UAE welcomes all efforts to support the trilateral mechanism in facilitating a Sudanese-led and Sudanese-owned political process. In this regard, the UAE stresses the importance for Sudanese stakeholders to engage in dialogue through direct talks, to devise a common understanding on the way forward. These talks should also be inclusive, with the full, equal, and meaningful participation of women and ensure the inclusion of youth.

As to the deterioration of the security situation in some parts of Darfur that led to the loss of many lives, we note that Sudan has responded promptly to the situation and established several important measures to reduce tensions. In this context, we stress that the full implementation of the Juba Peace Agreement remains essential to ensure Darfur’s long-term security and stability. This requires from the international community to intensify its efforts and provide technical and financial support so that Sudan can complete the implementation of the Agreement.

Mr. President,

Despite the challenges faced by Sudan,we recognize its continued tangible cooperation with the Office of the Prosecutor, which includes hosting a number of visits for the Office, including the current visit, and organizing meetings with government officials and other relevant individuals in Sudan. These engagements are an opportunity to deepen the sincere dialogue between the International Criminal Court and Sudan, based on the Court’s principle of complementarity and in line with the national laws of Sudan.

Finally, the UAE reiterates its strong support for Sudan’s efforts in implementing transitional justice mechanisms to help bring justice to the victims in Darfur, consistent with the terms of the Juba Peace Agreement.

To conclude, the UAE reaffirms its unwavering commitment to Sudan’s sovereignty, independence, territorial integrity, and national unity.

Thank you, Mr. President.