UNMISS welcomes signing of peace and fresh commitment in South Sudan.

Juba, 14th September 2018. The United Nations Mission in South Sudan or UNMISS welcomes fresh commitment and the signing of the peace agreement in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Wednesday.
UNMISS says the signing of a revitalized deal is a significant step forward to end the ongoing violence and the immense suffering of South Sudanese people.
The Chief of the Mission David Shearer describes the inking as a single step on the road to enduring peace and lay foundations for all that must follow.
He while addressing the signing ceremony says the greatest challenges are yet to come during the implementation phase.
The chief acknowledges efforts of the Intergovernmental Authority on Development, Sudan and Ethiopia for championing negotiations and showing true leadership in bringing the parties together to sign a new agreement.
“The United Nations and the international community will be expected to play their role in assisting with genuine reconciliation and peace building activities, Shearer pledges.
He calls on all parties to have political will and demonstrate a realistic implementation plan.
Shearer points out that “the key ingredient still lacking is trust. Those signing the agreement are former friends and foes. From my discussions with the parties, suspicion is widespread. It is beholden on all of us to encourage trust between parties.”
“A genuine commitment to peace and concrete actions to implement the agreement will encourage the people of South Sudan to move back to their homes to lead lives that are safe and self-reliant”, he adds.
He notes that the promise of the parties will also enable the country to change from its current dire economic state to an environment that attracts investment and development.