The United Nations warned on Thursday that Abyei’s unresolved final status remains a persistent and sensitive dispute between Sudan and South Sudan.
Guang Cong told Security Council virtually that issue remains most important unresolved question between two countries of concern globally.
Disputed territory claimed by both nations has remained in political limbo since South Sudan independence in 2011 was achieved.
Conflict in Sudan has worsened conditions in Abyei, hosting over 46,000 refugees, returnees and internally displaced people across the region.
Armed deployments by both sides continue violating agreements and Security Council resolutions governing Abyei officials warned repeatedly stated in report.
Presence of Rapid Support Forces in northern Abyei and South Sudanese troops in south hinder UNISFA operations according to envoy.
Residents expressed frustration over lack of progress on Abyei’s future stressing UN peacekeepers’ critical protection role during meetings last week.
African Union and Intergovernmental Authority on Development pledged cooperation with UN to support renewed Sudan —South Sudan talks process efforts.
The envoy urged both governments to restart dialogue as part of efforts to resolve Abyei’s final status peacefully without delay.
