Amidst skepticism and political tensions roaring in Abyei area, both North and South Sudan are currently working on demilitarising the border with a joint patrol, confirms the African Union.
Though, AU adviser Alex de Waal did not state when the ‘demilitarised common zone’ would be implemented, he did mention that it would cover 1,300 miles.
In between these confirmations, what boggles down my mind is the fact that can
1. Both North and South Sudan have a ‘demilitarised common zone’ when Abyei is burning down?
2. If they even have it, what is the longevity of this international border?
3. Most importantly, why North Sudan is not giving any official statements regarding the entire secession?
However this border, which would internationally divide the two countries as South Sudan secedes on 9th July, has witnessed innumerable clashes in the past.
However, the fears of witnessing a larger border war, which might re-ignite the civil war between North and South Sudan, have been tremendous in the recent months.
‘The 1956 Border’
The international border between North and South Sudan would follow the footprints of the 1956 border. This border came into existence after Sudan won its independence from Britain.
Meanwhile, the British government had stated that it would help in the demarcation of the border.
Andrew Mitchell, the Secretary of State for International Development in Britain had stated that Britain would be supportive in this division and provide advise if needed by both the emerging countries.
Though, concerns are being raised about people who inhabit the border and frequently cross the boundaries in search for grass for their respective cattles.
‘UN’s proposal rejected’
South Sudan has asked the United Nations peacekeeping forces to withdraw itself after it gains independence and becomes the newest nation in the world. Daffa-Alla Elhag Ali Osman, the UN Ambassador has officially stated this request in a letter to UN Secretary General Ban-ki Moon.
Also, South Sudan chose to completely reject the three month extension proposal by Ban ki-Moon regarding the mandate that involves 10,400 peacekeeping forces.
Ban-Ki Moon stated that this proposal was meant to further refurbish peace and calm deals between the two countries.
Though, Osman stated that the agreement can only be reached through very serious negotiations which would aim at international agreements, wealth sharing, citizenship and boundary issues.
‘Ethiopia’s peacekeeping support’
Neighbour country Ethiopia has recently offered to send its peacekeeping forces to the Abyei so that the clashes and violence being witnesssed in the location can be lowered down.
Meanwhile, Ethiopia provides shelter to 66,980 refugees hailing from Sudan. Most of these migrants inhabit the Gamble Region and the Benishangul-Gumuz region.
Currently, Ethiopia with its 1,606 kilometre border with Sudan tends to be a very important regional partner. Also, both the countries still need to establish their cooperated stand on the sharing of the Nile River.
Also, Ethiopia supports the Machakos agreement, also called as Comprehensive Peace agreement which would ended the second Sudanese civil war in 2005.
Nevertheless, the main question right now contemplates regarding the longevity of the ‘demilitarised common zone’ and its impact on the international politics of North and South Sudan.
shubhdachaudhary 