The Secretary-General expresses his disappointment at the failure to hold the Sudanese pre-dialogue meeting in Addis Ababa as a result of the decision of the ruling National Congress Party and its allies not to attend the meeting.

The Secretary-General stresses that a fully inclusive, free and transparent dialogue is critical to addressing the root causes of the recurrent crises in Sudan and achieving sustainable peace. This pre-dialogue meeting would have been an important step in this regard.

The Secretary-General urges all stakeholders to continue to engage constructively towards the early convening of a credible and inclusive National Dialogue.

The Secretary-General expresses his appreciation to the African Union High-level Implementation Panel for its tireless efforts on Sudan and South Sudan and reaffirms the continued full support and partnership of the United Nations.