Sudan expresses regret over US decision to extend economic sanctions

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Thursday 05 Nov 2015 - 13:14 Makkah mean time-23-1-1437 Sudan's Foreign Ministry (SUNA image) Khartoum (IINA) – The Sudanese Foreign Ministry expressed deep regret over the decision of the United States to renew the economic sanctions it imposed on Sudan for another year, saying the move violates the international legitimacy, Sudan Tribune reported. Washington has imposed economic and trade sanctions on Sudan since 1997 in response to its alleged connection to terror networks and human rights abuses. In 2007, it tightened the embargo, citing abuses in Darfur, labelling them as genocide. In a statement issued on Wednesday, Sudan’s Foreign Ministry rejected the justifications stated by the White House for the renewal of the sanctions, saying the move is contrary to the international legitimacy. The U.S. decision comes at a time when Sudan is continuing its constructive efforts to achieve stability and maintain security in the region, said the statement, pointing to Sudan's role in the fight against organized and cross-border crimes and human trafficking, besides its cooperation in the counter-terrorism efforts. The statement also pointed to the international consensus against any unilateral economic sanctions, saying "it represents a clear violation for the international law and the rights of the peoples to achieve sustainable development". The ministry added that nations around the world have agreed that economic sanctions represent a threat to peace and social security and leads to escalation and prolongation of the conflicts. It is noteworthy that the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development contained an item that prevents member states from applying unilateral sanctions particularly against developing nations. The item urges member states to refrain from promulgating and applying any unilateral economic, financial or trade measures not in accordance with international law and the UN Charter that impede the full achievement of economic and social development, particularly in developing countries. AB/IINA