Statement attributable to the Spokesman for the Secretary-General on the Sudan

The Secretary-General would like to commend the Government of Sudan and the Sudan People's Liberation Movement on reaching an agreement allowing humanitarian workers unimpeded access to all areas and for all people in need in Sudan. The agreement, which takes effect today, will allow assistance to reach as many as one million people who have not been able to receive aid.

The Secretary-General urges the international donor community to provide Operation Lifeline Sudan with the resources necessary to meet the needs of the growing numbers of beneficiaries. Finally, he reiterates the support of the United Nations to the IGAD-led peace process at Machakos, Kenya.