The Secretary-General commends the strong stance adopted by the IGAD Heads of States on the conflict in South Sudan which is in the interest of the people of South Sudan.

The Secretary-General is encouraged by the parties' intent to cease hostilities immediately and reach agreement on an inclusive power sharing agreement within 15 days.

The Secretary-General hopes that the parties will live up to their stated commitment to peace and meaningfully engage in dialogue in order to reach a comprehensive peace agreement that addresses the root causes of the conflict in South Sudan.