Asmara, 24 February 2010 – President Isaias Afwerki stressed the need for mediators or facilitators to enhance their role so as to achieve a lasting solution to the Darfur problem. He made the remarks during the signing ceremony of the First Framework Agreement in Doha between the Sudanese government and a Darfuri armed group, Justice and Equality Movement.
During the signing ceremony held yesterday, the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Hamid Bin Khalifa Al-Thani, lauded the efforts exerted by President Isaias Afwerki in promoting peace and stability in Sudan. He further called on other groups in Darfur to join the peace process so as to achieve a comprehensive and lasting peace.
Following the signing ceremony, the Emir of Qatar, Presidents Isaias Afwerki, Omar Hassen Al-Beshir of Sudan and Idris Debi of Chad gave press conference. Sheikh Hamid Bin Khalifa Al-Thani expressed hope that the first step taken would lead to a genuine and lasting solution to the Darfur problem.
It is to be noted that President Isaias left for Doha yesterday to attend the signing ceremony of the First Framework Agreement as regards the Darfur issue on the basis of the initiative taken by Qatar.(Shabait)
