South Sudan urged to hasten process of implementing peace deal

JUBA, July 30 (Xinhua) -- Three Western countries on Tuesday called on South Sudan parties to the conflict to step up efforts to fully implement the peace process with less than four months until the new deadline for the end of the pre-transitional period.

The members of the troika, which comprises Britain, Norway and the United States, said while there is progress, lack of momentum to fully implement the peace agreement may threaten the successful formation of the transitional government and prospects for the peace process.

"We call on the parties to redouble their efforts to resolve the most pressing remaining issues, which include ensuring agreed security reforms, are delivered, through the mobilization of necessary support," the troika said in a joint statement issued in Juba.

Signatories to the fragile peace agreement on May 3 agreed to extend the formation of the transitional government by six months following delays in the implementation of the pact over unresolved security issues.

The foreign nations reaffirmed their commitment to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD)-led South Sudan peace process and to the lasting peace the people of South Sudan deserve.

They said the significant drop in political violence and the presence of many opposition politicians in Juba are welcome developments.

However, the troika said with less than four months until the new deadline for the end of the pre-transitional period, time is running out.

The troika backed calls by the region and South Sudan's civil society in calling for regular engagement between President Salva Kiir and Riek Machar.

The foreign nations said focused discussions on outstanding tasks are critical for progress towards the formation of the revitalized transitional government of national unity, which will set the foundation for effective joint governance.

According to the troika, credible elections in South Sudan in 2022 are another important milestone, noting that for the peace process to remain credible, it is important that the parties demonstrate their commitment to peace, and meet the assurances they made in May. Enditem