The members of the Security Council held a video conference on 24 April 2020 to discuss the African Union-United Nations Hybrid Operation in Darfur (UNAMID). They were briefed by Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix and Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Ms. Rosemary DiCarlo.

The members of the Security Council reaffirmed their support to the Government of Sudan’s endeavours to see Sudan through a successful transition in a manner that achieves the hopes and aspirations of the Sudanese people for a peaceful, stable, democratic and prosperous future.

The members of the Security Council welcomed the commitment of the Government of Sudan and most of the armed groups to engage in peace talks to achieve a comprehensive peace agreement. They encouraged all parties to engage constructively, immediately and without pre-conditions to conclude negotiations on a comprehensive peace agreement. They welcomed the positive response by the Government of Sudan and the armed movements to the Secretary-General’s call for a Global Ceasefire.

The members of the Security Council noted with concern the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on Sudan, particularly on the socio-economic and humanitarian situation. They expressed their solidarity with the people of Sudan and welcomed national and international efforts to stop the spread and mitigate the effects of the outbreak.

The members of the Security Council acknowledged the request from the Government of Sudan to the Secretary-General for support from the United Nations during the transitional period. In this context, they underscored the need to avoid a relapse into conflict in Darfur and to protect the peacebuilding gains.  They reaffirmed their intention to decide on the responsible drawdown and exit of UNAMID and the establishment of a follow-on presence to UNAMID by 31 May 2020 in close cooperation with the Government of Sudan.