African Union key player in ending Sudan conflict - Lavrov

MOSCOW, April 14 (Itar-Tass) - Settlement of the conflict in Sudan hangs largely on increased demilitarisation in the disputed central Abyei region and on resumed talks on the status of disputed territories, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said after talks with Sudanese counterpart Ali Karti on Monday. "We agree that the soonest launch of the Joint Border Verification and Monitoring Mechanism is a priority for both parties," Lavrov said. “Russia welcomes active efforts taken by the African Union aimed at persuading leaders of armed groups to settle disagreements with the government by peaceful means,” Lavrov said. “Moscow believes that the African Union should continue a leading role for an inter-Sudan settlement based on the norms of international law,” he added. “We’re ready to contribute to the process within our co-operation with Sudan and within the U.N. Security Council.” Learn more on itar-tass.com