UNSC Briefing/ Consultations on UNMISS [South Sudan]

[Monday, 20 June 2022; 1000 hrs EDT/1930 hrs IST]

India Remarks

Mr. President,

Let me begin by thanking SRSG Frank Haysom, OCHA Acting Director of Operations Ghada Mudawi and CSO Representative for their informative briefings. 

2.    The positive political and security developments in South Sudan were evident in the Secretary General’s report and have been reinforced further by today’s briefing. The completion of formation of the reconstituted Transitional National Legislative Assembly; tabling of important legislations including constitution making process bill; and agreement on the implementation of the transitional security arrangements reflect the commitment of leaders to Revitalized Agreement. We also appreciate the role played by the Sudan in supporting the parties in coming to an agreement on the security arrangements. There has also been renewed emphasis on reconciliation, with launching of consultative process for the establishment of Commission for Truth, Reconciliation and Healing. These developments are significant and need to be duly recognized. 

3.    Moving forward, in the coming months, South Sudan authorities need to make further progress on graduation of the forces and operationalization of the Necessary Unified Forces and legislations concerning elections and finalization of electoral calendar. We believe that with the support from the countries in the region, and international community including the AU and IGAD (Intergovernmental Authority on Development), progress on holding of elections is possible in the coming months. In this regard, we take note of the trilateral AU-IGAD-UN evaluation process held in March. 

4.    On the economic front, the situation has remained relatively stable, with the GDP expected to grow positively in 2022. The humanitarian situation has remained a matter of concern, with an estimated 8.9 million people requiring humanitarian assistance. The international community, including the UN, needs to step up the efforts, in support of the Government.  We appreciate the Mission’s efforts towards delivery of humanitarian assistance to those in need, particularly in the flood affected areas.

5.    The security situation continues to remain tenuous in some regions despite overall decrease in violent incidents. We hope the efforts of the Sant’Egidio Community’s mediation efforts will help in bringing the non-signatory groups and the Government to reach an understanding. We also take note of UNMISS role in protecting the civilians at Malakkal site and in mitigating the inter-communal conflict. We have also noted the improved communication between UNMISS and the Government. This development is having positive impact on facilitation of Mission’s operations, evident from decrease in SOFA(status of forces agreement) violations.  We also take note of integrated and cross-Mission approach including setting up of Temporary Operational Bases. 

6.    We appreciate the Mission’s efforts to support Rule of Law and accountability institutions by supporting special Courts, mobile Courts and development of framework for victim and witness protection programs. The recent creation of the Ministry of Peacebuilding in South Sudan would help in better understanding peacebuilding needs.

Mr. President,

7.    India has been one of the largest TCCs (troop contributing country) to UNMISS since its establishment a decade ago. At present we have nearly 2300 troops serving in the country. Apart from their core mandate of protecting civilians and providing medical services, the Indian contingent in UNMISS is also contributing to sustainable development and welfare of the people of South Sudan. Over the years, the Indian peacekeepers have gone beyond the call of duty  by undertaking a variety of engineering assignments, offering health services to humans and animals alike and organizing educational awareness camps. It is no surprise that the UN has consistently acknowledged the outstanding contributions of the Indian peacekeepers. The most recent such example was in April this year when over 1100 Indian peacekeepers serving in the Upper Nile State were honoured with UN medals for their outstanding and multifaceted work. This includes women peacekeepers from India who have been championing the cause of diseases prevention and integrating a gender perspective into peacekeeping activities by awareness campaigns and livelihood training.

8.    We believe, at this transformative phase, South Sudan requires the wholehearted support of the international community, including from the IGAD, AU and UN. The international community, including this Council, needs to make all efforts to address the concerns repeatedly raised by South Sudan regarding the sanctions, including on arms embargo and targeted measures. 

Mr. President,

9.    India is fully cognizant of the challenges faced by South Sudan in its pursuit of peace and stability. India has supplied lifesaving essential medicines in 2020 and again in 2021 during the Covid pandemic. Food grain assistance of 70 MT was provided to flood affected people. An artificial limbs fitment camp has been organized in Juba which will benefit over 500 amputees. We have also recently concluded a special course for the capacity building of diplomats from South Sudan. On our part, we will continue to support South Sudan, and its people in their journey towards securing sustainable peace and a prosperous future.

I thank you.